Black Garlic for Brain Health

What Is Black Garlic?

Black garlic is essentially a regular garlic fermented for at least several weeks under controlled humidity and temperature levels. Upon this process, garlic loses its characteristic unpleasant smell and obtains increased bioactivity. Black garlic contains significantly more antioxidants than raw garlic and provides a host of beneficial effects on the body.

Benefits of Black Garlic for Brain Health

Brain inflammation can severely affect its ability to store and process information, thereby significantly impairing cognitive function and memory. For example, Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by cognitive impairments and dementia, is associated with brain inflammation.

Black garlic is known for containing high levels of antioxidants – molecules that can fight inflammation. Studies show that black garlic can reduce brain inflammation associated with some diseases[1]. In addition, it was demonstrated that black garlic extract has the potential to improve short-term memory [2]. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these statements. 

Black Garlic Supplements

Black garlic can become an excellent addition to your diet thanks to its deliciously sweet taste and creamy texture. For example, black garlic is a great complement to homemade salad dressings and condiments, while in a roasted form, it pairs excellently with chicken, meat, and vegetables. However, it is worth mentioning that since black garlic has enhanced properties of raw garlic, you don’t want to use it in excessive amounts.

An alternative way to benefit from black garlic is by taking supplements. Generally, black garlic supplements are considered safe. However, some people should practice caution about black garlic consumption. These individuals include:

• people taking blood-thinning drugs
• people with diabetes
• pregnant and breastfeeding women
• children
• people with hypotension (low blood pressure)
• people with allergies to components of black garlic supplements
• people who plan to undergo surgical intervention

Notably, even if you don’t fall into one of the listed groups, it is advisable to talk with your doctor before taking black garlic supplements to discuss suitability and dosage.

Conclusion

Black garlic is quickly gaining popularity as a superfood. Due to its enhanced bioactivity and antioxidant levels, black garlic provides a range of beneficial effects on the body. Although additional studies are needed, it is believed to improve short-term memory and brain health by decreasing inflammation.

Black garlic can be eaten in whole form as a part of delicious meals or taken as supplements. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before beginning supplementation.