Garlic is often hailed as a superfood—and for good reason. It’s been used for centuries in cooking and traditional medicine, thanks to its reputation for boosting immunity, improving blood flow, and even warding off negative vibes, according to some age-old beliefs.

But despite all the good things garlic can do, it’s not always harmless. In fact, for some people, garlic might actually make certain health issues worse. Here are four situations where garlic might do more harm than good.

1. People with liver issues should tread carefully

While garlic is sometimes thought to support liver health, that’s not always the case—especially if you’re dealing with liver conditions like hepatitis or inflammation. Garlic can actually irritate the liver further, thanks to its strong, stimulating compounds.

Eating too much garlic might also interfere with liver enzymes and make fat digestion harder, putting extra strain on an already stressed liver.

Avoid it if: You’re dealing with hepatitis, fatty liver, or any other liver condition.

2. Those with eye problems should cut back

There’s an old saying in Chinese medicine: “Garlic has a hundred benefits, but it harms the eyes.” This belief comes from the idea that garlic contains compounds like allicin, which may irritate the eyes—especially if you already suffer from dry eyes, conjunctivitis, or general eye fatigue.

If your eyes often feel itchy, red, or blurry, it might be worth dialing down the garlic in your meals.

Tip: If you have poor eyesight or chronic eye conditions, check with a healthcare provider before eating garlic regularly.

3. Raw garlic and diarrhea don’t mix

Raw garlic is often praised for aiding digestion and fighting off bacteria, but it can actually backfire if you’re dealing with diarrhea. In cases of gut trouble—like food poisoning or infections—garlic can irritate the stomach lining and throw off your digestion even more.

Caution: It’s best to wait until your digestive system has calmed down before adding raw garlic back into your diet.

4. Empty stomach? Skip the garlic

Some people like to eat garlic first thing in the morning to “detox,” but doing this on an empty stomach can be tough on your system. Garlic’s strong sulfur compounds can irritate the stomach lining, possibly leading to heartburn, pain, or even ulcers.

If you’re prone to acid reflux or stomach issues, steer clear of eating garlic solo.

Tip: Pair garlic with other foods in a balanced meal, and avoid eating it alone—especially first thing in the morning.

Final thoughts

Garlic can definitely be a powerful ally for your health—but only when used wisely. Like any potent food, it’s important to consider how it interacts with your individual health. If you fall into one of the risk categories above, it’s smart to talk with a healthcare professional before making garlic a regular part of your diet.

Being mindful means you can enjoy the perks of garlic—without the unwanted side effects.