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Combine garlic with other foods — for example, in dressings, dips, or sauces — to help reduce the chance of digestive distress.
4. Using too much — or too little
A tiny pinch of garlic isn’t likely to help, but going overboard can cause digestive discomfort, unpleasant breath, or even body odor.
The right amount:
Most people do well with about 1 clove daily. If tolerated, up to 2 cloves a day is fine. Pay attention to how your body reacts.
5. Using old or sprouted garlic
Garlic that is soft, shriveled, or discolored has lost its strength, and sprouted cloves may have a bitter taste.
How to choose:
Select firm, white bulbs with tight skins. Store garlic in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated spot — not in the refrigerator. You could also experiment with black garlic, which is milder in flavor and higher in antioxidants.
6. Overlooking interactions with medications
Garlic naturally thins the blood, which can amplify the effects of blood-thinning medications like warfarin and raise bleeding risk.
If you take medication:
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