Are black garlic supplements safe to take?

Black garlic supplements have been gaining popularity due to their various health benefits. The question is, are they really safe to take? Let’s explore the potential risks and benefits of taking black garlic supplements.

Have you heard of black garlic?

It is a type of aged garlic with a unique, deep brownish-black hue. This culinary creation originates in East Asia and is made by fermenting regular garlic (Allium sativum) in a controlled environment of high humidity and low heat for several weeks. Such conditions alter chemical composition through the Maillard reaction, resulting in the distinctive black color of garlic cloves and their sweet taste. You can use this delicacy in all sorts of dishes!

Benefits of Taking Black Garlic Supplements

Black garlic contains a large amount of antioxidants, which can offer numerous health benefits such as boosting immunity, regulating cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, protecting against certain heart diseases, anti-inflammation, hepatoprotection, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, and anti-allergy properties [1]. In addition, due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics, black garlic may contribute to the prevention of certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s and dementia [2].

Are Black Garlic Supplements Safe?

Supplements containing black garlic are generally considered safe. However, certain groups of people should practice caution when planning to take black garlic supplements.

People who belong to the following categories should be careful when consuming black garlic supplements and consult their healthcare providers before starting the course of the supplements:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Children
• People with diabetes
• People with a history of digestive issues

People who belong to the following categories should avoid taking black garlic supplements altogether:

• Individuals with the chronic bleeding disease 
• Patients after surgery or those preparing for the surgery
• People with low blood pressure
• Those who take blood-thinning medications
• People with an allergic reaction to garlic
• People with an allergic reaction to other components of black garlic supplements

Garlic may also interact with some medications, affecting their effectiveness. Therefore, before taking black garlic or black garlic supplements, people using the following medications should consult their healthcare provider:

• Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs
• Antidiabetic medications
• Antihypertensive drugs (used to manage high blood pressure)
• Isoniazid (an antibiotic used to treat active tuberculosis infectious or avert active tuberculosis infections in people who potentially have been exposed to the bacteria)
• Medications changed and metabolized by the liver
• Saquinavir, Atazanavir, and other medications taken for HIV
• Sofosbuvir (a drug used in hepatitis C therapy)
• Tacrolimus (medication used to prevent rejection of a kidney, heart, liver, or lung transplant) 
• Warfarin (medication used to slow blood clotting)

It is also important to remember that eating black garlic in large amounts could lead to skin odor, bad breath, and stomach discomfort.

Conclusion

Overall, there are numerous health benefits associated with consuming black garlic supplements. However, it is essential to practice caution when taking these supplements for extended periods of time, as some side effects may occur. To avoid any unnecessary complications or side effects, it is always best to talk to a qualified medical professional prior to beginning any dietary change or supplement routine for added safety and protection.