If you’re looking for a natural remedy to improve your cholesterol levels, you might have heard about taking garlic shots on an empty stomach. This simple yet potent method can be a game-changer for those seeking a more natural approach to heart health. But how does this work, and what’s the best way to incorporate garlic shots into your daily routine? In this article, we list the benefits of taking garlic shots for managing cholesterol levels and how to make it.
Garlic and Cholesterol: What's the Connection?
According to a 2012 study, the cholesterol-lowering effects of garlic are attributed to allicin, a sulphur-based compound. Allicin is released when garlic is chopped, crushed, or chewed, and this active compound is known to reduce the levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) or 'bad' cholesterol, in the body. High LDL levels are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, so reducing LDL is a key goal for those managing cholesterol.
A 2020 review highlights multiple studies indicating that aged black garlic extract effectively lowered LDL cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol levels. Participants in these studies took either 300 mg or 6 g of aged black garlic extract twice daily for 4-12 weeks.
Why Garlic Shots on an Empty Stomach?
Taking garlic shots on an empty stomach can enhance its effectiveness. When consumed without any food, the body absorbs garlic’s nutrients more efficiently. On an empty stomach, there are no other substances to interfere with the breakdown of allicin, ensuring that the garlic’s full medicinal properties are absorbed.
Also, taking garlic first thing in the morning kick starts your metabolism, helps flush out toxins, and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day in terms of digestion and circulation.
How to Prepare Garlic Shots for High Cholesterol
Garlic shots are easy to prepare at home, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Here's how you can make and consume garlic shots to help manage your cholesterol levels:
Ingredients
- 2–3 cloves of fresh garlic
- Half a lemon (optional)
- A small amount of water (around 30 ml)
- A pinch of honey (optional, for taste)
Instructions
- Begin by crushing or finely chopping 2–3 garlic cloves. Crushing the garlic activates allicin, the compound responsible for many health benefits. Allow the garlic to sit for 5–10 minutes to activate the allicin.
- Add the crushed garlic to a small glass, and pour a small amount of water (about 30 ml) to dilute the intensity. You can also squeeze half a lemon into the shot, which not only improves the taste but also adds an extra dose of vitamin C, which is great for your heart.
- If the taste is too strong, you can add a pinch of honey to make it more palatable. Honey also has health benefits, but be cautious if you're managing blood sugar levels.
- Drink the garlic shot on an empty stomach, ideally first thing in the morning before consuming other food or beverages.
Are There Any Side Effects?
- Digestive Issues: Garlic can irritate the stomach, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems. Starting with smaller amounts of garlic and gradually increasing may help reduce this risk.
- Bad Breath and Body Odour: Garlic's sulphur compounds are responsible for its strong smell, which can result in bad breath and even body odour. If this is a concern, brushing your teeth and using a tongue scraper after garlic shots can help.
- Blood Thinning: Garlic has natural blood-thinning properties, which are beneficial for heart health but can be risky if you're taking blood-thinning medication. Always consult your doctor if you're on such medication before introducing garlic shots into your routine.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]