Garlic Fights Cholesterol and Cancer

Studies conducted in the US, Europe and China suggest that garlic can lower cholesterol levels. A number of studies suggest that regular consumption of garlic, one clove a day or the equivalent in supplement form, cuts cholesterol by 7% to 15%. Garlic seems to be especially helpful at reducing LDL which is the bad cholesterol.

Fighting Cancer

Research suggests that garlic can help prevent a variety of malignant cancers. For example, stomach cancer. In a study conducted in China, people who ate garlic regularly had an unusually low rate of this potentially deadly cancer. Another study shows it fights colon cancer. Prostate cancer can also be prevented. A 1997 study conducted in England, found that men who consumed garlic two or more times per week were one-third less likely than other men to develop prostate cancer. In one study, a garlic derivative called S-allylmercaptocysteine inhibited the growth of human prostate tumors that had been transplanted to mice. In another study, a garlic extract called diallyldisulfide inhibited the growth of human breast cancer cells.

The explanation of the power of garlic lies in the sulfur compounds it contains. Some laboratory studies have demonstrated that these compounds block the synthesis of carcinogens known as nitrosamines. In the absence of sulfur, the digestive process leads to the formation of nitrosamines each time nitrates and nitrites are consumed. Nitrates and nitrites are found in preservatives and in beets, spinach and certain other foods. In addition to this, garlic also stimulates the body to synthesize glutathione. In addition to deactivating certain carcinogens, this natural antioxidant protects cell membranes against damage caused by renegade molecules known as free radicals.

Studies suggest that it is possible to derive cancer chemotherapy drugs from garlic. Garlic much like ginger and other herbs that are popular as foods are generally fine for the majority of people but can cause serious problems for pregnant women. It's always best to check with a doctor before giving any herbal remedy to a child under age 12.