A Nutritionist at Ada-East District, Mr Raphael Kwabena Angmortey, has cautioned pregnant women against the excessive eating of raw garlic or taking its supplements in excess, to avoid complications.

He said excessive intake of garlic could lead to bleeding, which could be detrimental to the health of the pregnant woman.

“Although garlic has natural medicinal properties, it is important to take it in moderation so as not to have any complications during the pregnancy period,” he told the Ghana News Agency in an interview on Thursday at Ada in the Greater Accra Region.

Maternal hemoglobin levels during pregnancy should be 11 grams per deciliter and above and any loss of blood during this period could cause heartburn and maternal mortality, Mr Angmortey said.

"Some pregnant women put the garlic in plastic bottles, pour water on it, and drink it. It is too much and can be very dangerous, although there is no specific amount of garlic to be consumed per day you don't have to over-consume it," he stated.

Eating a balanced diet is highly recommended, especially during pregnancy, to ensure good health as most of the nutrients for the foetus come from the mother, he said.

He also cautioned expectant mothers to consult their health care providers before taking garlic and other supplements.

“Supplements prescribed by health providers are based on the condition of the individual pregnant woman,  as such, it is important to take supplements prescribed by the health professionals only”.