Black Garlic Benefits for Diabetes

What Is Black Garlic?

Black garlic is one of the types of aged garlic. It is obtained from fresh garlic that has been fermented under low heat (60–90 °C or 140-194F) and specific humidity (70–90%) for a certain amount of time. During the process of fermentation, the cloves acquire a black color. In addition, the garlic becomes sweeter, chewier, and softer than regular fresh garlic. Several studies have found that, aside from variations in color, texture, and flavor, black garlic contains more water-soluble antioxidants, leading to more potential health benefits.

Benefits Of Black Garlic For Blood Sugar Control

Clinical studies reported that fresh garlic lowers many diabetes risk factors by decreasing triglyceride, cholesterol, and sugar levels in the bloodstream. According to new research, black garlic could be more effective at lowering blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. 

Several animal studies have found that black garlic can considerably reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and glucose levels in the blood. At the same time, black garlic was found to increase the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (good cholesterol) in the bloodstream.

It is clear that more clinical research is required to determine if black garlic can be effectively used to lower blood sugar levels in humans. Therefore, you should consult with your doctor before taking black garlic as a way to manage diabetes and blood sugar levels.

It is important to note that, in addition to its beneficial effects on diabetes and its related complications, black garlic can also pose a risk to people with diabetes. Black garlic may significantly lower blood sugar levels and may even lead to diabetic coma. Therefore, it is essential for individuals with diabetes to consult with a medical professional before beginning to take black garlic supplements.

Are Black Garlic Supplements Safe To Take?

Generally, it has been determined that consuming black garlic is safe. However, after taking it orally, you may experience burning sensations in the mouth or stomach, bloating, vomiting, or nausea. Therefore, you should consider talking to your healthcare provider before taking black garlic supplements. Also, precautions should be taken for some groups of people:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, should consult with their doctor before taking black garlic and consume it only in small doses. 
• As was mentioned earlier, black garlic may cause a significant drop in blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. So, if you have diabetes, it is important to talk with your doctor before taking black garlic supplements.
• If you have a history of gastrointestinal problems, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming black garlic, as it may cause digestive distress.
• Since black garlic may lower blood pressure, you should be cautious and consult with the doctor if you have low blood pressure.
• Black garlic may result in an increased risk of bleeding, so patients with chronic bleeding disorders or after surgery should avoid taking it.

Conclusion

Generally, numerous health benefits are associated with black garlic, including anti-oxidation, neuroprotection, immunomodulation, hypolipidemia, anti-inflammation, cardiovascular protection, hepatoprotection, and others. In addition, its ability to lower blood sugar levels helps prevent such health issues as symptoms of diabetes and kidney dysfunction. However, people with diabetes should be cautious when taking black garlic, and they should speak to a doctor beforehand as it could be dangerous for them.