Published May 11, 2023 by

Garlic: Anti-Cancer Ally

Garlic (Allium sativum) is known for its potential health benefits, including anticancer properties. While the mechanisms are not entirely understood, several potential anti-cancer effects of garlic have been proposed, supported by laboratory and some epidemiological studies:

  1. Antioxidant Properties: Garlic contains organosulfur compounds such as allicin, which have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can prevent cell damage that may lead to cancer.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Inflammation can contribute to cancer development and progression. Garlic has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.
  3. Inhibition of Carcinogen Activation: Some compounds in garlic have been found to inhibit the activation of certain carcinogens, potentially reducing the risk of cancer.
  4. DNA Repair: Some studies suggest that garlic may enhance DNA repair, which could prevent the development and progression of cancer.
  5. Induction of Cell Death (Apoptosis): Certain compounds in garlic may induce apoptosis, a process that causes cell death, in cancer cells without affecting normal cells.
  6. Inhibiting Angiogenesis and Tumor Invasion: Garlic compounds may inhibit the growth of blood vessels needed for tumor growth and spread, a process known as angiogenesis.
  7. They may also inhibit the ability of cancer cells to invade and spread to other tissues.
  8. Immune System Modulation: Garlic may enhance the functioning of the immune system, potentially improving the body’s ability to fight off cancer cells.

To help find more ways to incorporate garlic into your diet, I recommend checking some of these cookbooks:

  1. Garlic: More than 65 deliciously different ways to enjoy cooking with garlic by Jenny Linford
  2. Garlic: A Simple Garlic Cookbook for Everyone (2nd Edition) by BookSumo Press
  3. The Garlic Lovers Cookbook by Gilroy Garlic Festival Committee
  4. Garlic, an Edible Biography: The History, Politics, and Mythology behind the World’s Most Pungent Food with over 100 Recipes by Robin Cherry
  5. AGLIO: Garlic Lovers Cookbook by Caroline Sherman
Dr. Daniel Thomas, DO, MS

Dr. Daniel Thomas, DO, MS

Dr. Thomas is a dedicated and hard-working physician with a wealth of education, experience, and expertise. With a career spanning over thirty years, he has helped people worldwide by providing innovative solutions to improving and maintaining their health. His strength lies in his scientific curiosity, creative and analytical thinking, and practical application of groundbreaking biomedical research. Despite the demands of a full-time medical practice, to stay at the forefront and continuously improve the care of his patients, Dr. Thomas devotes 20-30 hours each week to reviewing the latest scientific literature to uncover potentially promising treatments. He can be reached at drthomas@healthyandstrong.com.