Science Behind Garlic: Lowering Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Naturally

A study found that garlic can lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

The research, published in the journal Nutrients, highlights these potential health benefits

According to previous studies, allicin, a compound found in garlic, can have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects. Animal studies also showed that allicin effectively reduces cholesterol levels.

Recently, a research team in China conducted a Meta-analysis of the effects of garlic on blood glucose, also known as blood sugar and lipid metabolism. The team analyzed 22 studies, including 29 clinical trials, involving 1,567 participants of various nationalities and ages.

The clinical trials in the Meta-analysis required participants to consume garlic for at least two weeks. The researchers measured glycated hemoglobin levels, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. All participants were aged 18 or older.

The research team focused on whether the participants’ garlic consumption could improve metabolic markers and comprehensively analyzed the data from each clinical trial. The meta-analysis found that garlic consumption was associated with reduced fasting blood sugar, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol levels and increased HDL cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the longer the consumption of garlic, the greater the improvements in fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol levels. However, garlic consumption did not affect triglyceride levels. The research team predicted that garlic consumption could be valuable in preventing or managing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.