Tag: Garlic digestion

According to Healthline, it is generally safe for most people to consume raw garlic, and it may even offer more potent health benefits than cooked versions due to higher allicin content. However, the strong, pungent flavor and potential side effects on digestion are significant considerations.

For those with sensitive stomachs, switching to cooked garlic can help ease digestive side effects like heartburn and acid reflux. This is because the chemical compounds responsible for its strong flavor and potential irritation are altered by heat, making cooked garlic easier to digest than raw garlic for many people.

According to research, many people with sensitive stomachs experience digestive discomfort like bloating and gas due to fructans, a type of carbohydrate abundant in raw garlic. Fortunately, several simple preparation and cooking techniques can make garlic easier to digest without sacrificing its flavor.

According to research from Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute, allowing crushed or chopped garlic to sit for 10-15 minutes before consuming can boost the formation of beneficial sulfur compounds. This waiting period directly influences how long after eating raw garlic can I eat to maximize its health effects.