Garlic (Allium sativum) has been utilized globally as a culinary and medicinal herb for centuries. Researchers are actively studying its specific components including sulfur compounds, antioxidants, and unique bioactive proteins to identify potential health benefits during pregnancy.
This article explores the scientific studies investigating garlic’s potential effects throughout pregnancy.
Table of Contents
Historical and General Perspectives
Historically, garlic has been revered as a medicinal herb across many cultures. Most of all it is known for helping treat heart problems, maintaining blood pressure, and fighting mild infections.
Various research reviews have documented garlic’s immune-stimulating effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and modest cardiovascular benefits (1, 2).
Recent studies have demonstrated that garlic contains proteins and peptides that offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating effects (3).
While the majority of research examines the general population, these findings raise questions about how garlic may particularly benefit you while pregnant.
Potential Benefits of Eating Garlic During Pregnancy
Research suggests several potential benefits of consuming garlic during pregnancy. Here’s what studies reveal about the ways garlic may benefit you.
1. Decreased Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Inflammation and oxidative stress often increase during pregnancy, particularly in conditions like preeclampsia.
A clinical trial found that pregnant women at risk for preeclampsia who received garlic supplements exhibited reduced levels of the inflammatory marker hs-CRP after nine weeks. Levels of GSH (an essential antioxidant) were also significantly higher in these women (4).
Further reviews also confirm garlic’s strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help combat oxidative stress (5).
Recent evidence indicates that although garlic improves some laboratory values, it does not necessarily prevent or halt the preeclampsia disease process itself (4, 6, 7).
2. Reduced Risk of Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Infection and inflammation are recognized risk factors for preterm birth.
A large Norwegian cohort study including nearly 19,000 women found fewer incidences of spontaneous preterm delivery with higher intakes of allium vegetables, especially garlic (8).
Research has shown that diets high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish may be associated with fewer preterm births (9).
Although garlic is only one of many healthy foods that may contribute, these results suggest it could be associated with a decreased risk of preterm delivery.
3. Enhanced Immune Function
Your immune system naturally changes during pregnancy, which is why immune support is important.
Clinical trials in non-pregnant adults have shown that aged garlic extract may help stimulate the activation of specific immune cells (10).
Previous studies have also found that garlic possesses immune-boosting properties (1).
While these results are not from studies specifically on pregnant women, they may be applicable to supporting your immune health during pregnancy.
4. Promotes Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health
Maintaining healthy blood pressure and metabolism is crucial during your pregnancy.
Several meta-analyses have shown that garlic supplementation can significantly reduce blood pressure in hypertensive individuals, while potentially improving arterial stiffness and promoting gut health (11, 12).
Other systematic reviews have found that garlic helps regulate blood lipids and glucose, which can be beneficial if you develop gestational diabetes (13).
Although direct evidence in pregnancy is limited, existing studies suggest that garlic may help support your cardiovascular and metabolic health during this important time.
5. Protection Against Infections
During pregnancy, infections can heighten your risk of complications such as preterm labor.
Garlic contains compounds like allicin, which demonstrate antimicrobial effects against a range of bacteria and fungi (14, 15).
A large observational study noted that this antimicrobial activity may partly explain why women who regularly consume garlic have a lower risk of spontaneous preterm delivery (8).
More studies are needed to definitively establish a cause-and-effect relationship.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While garlic offers many benefits, there are several important considerations to note. Being aware of these can help you make informed decisions about incorporating garlic into your pregnancy diet.
1. Digestive Discomfort and IBS Symptoms
Those with sensitive digestive systems may find that garlic irritates the stomach.
In a cross-sectional study of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), participants reported garlic as a symptom trigger along with foods such as onions and coffee (16).
If you’re already experiencing pregnancy-related nausea or digestive discomfort, you may want to monitor whether garlic exacerbates these symptoms.
2. Potential to Worsen Heartburn
Hormonal changes and your growing uterus pressing against your stomach often lead to heartburn during pregnancy.
Although no specific clinical trials have examined garlic and pregnancy-related reflux, medical sources frequently identify it as a potential trigger. Garlic can reduce the tone of your lower esophageal sphincter, which may worsen reflux symptoms (17).
If you experience heartburn during pregnancy, you might consider reducing your garlic consumption or lightly cooking it before eating.
3. Mild Side Effects and Skin Reactions
Studies have found that garlic tablets generally cause only mild side effects, such as headache, itching, or strong odor, without severe effects on liver, kidney, or blood health (18).
Exercise caution when applying raw garlic directly to the skin, however. A systematic review of case reports found that raw garlic can cause second-degree and even necrotic burns when left on the skin for too long (19).
4. Possible Medication Interactions
You might be taking supplements or prescription medications during your pregnancy.
Research shows that high doses of garlic can interact with certain cardiovascular medications and blood thinners, potentially increasing bleeding risk (20, 21).
This is particularly important during pregnancy if you need a cesarean section or experience other complications that involve bleeding. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking garlic supplements or consuming large amounts.
Conclusion
Garlic offers promising benefits during pregnancy due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. These qualities may help reduce your risk of spontaneous preterm birth and support your immune function.
Research hasn’t consistently shown that garlic prevents conditions like preeclampsia or reliably improves all pregnancy-specific health markers. Additionally, consuming excessive garlic may lead to digestive discomfort, increased heartburn, or medication interactions.
Since there’s no established guideline for how much garlic is “too much,” it’s safest to consume it in food-level amounts. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking garlic supplements.
As with any dietary change during pregnancy, discussing your garlic consumption with your doctor ensures you’ll receive the benefits while minimizing potential risks.