07/13/2018 / By Michelle Simmons
New research in Poland has found that garlic extract can reduce weight-related cardiovascular risks. The study, published in the journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, investigated the potential effects of garlic on arterial stiffness and endothelial function in overweight and obese people.
In the study, University of Medical Sciences in Poznan in Poland and Rutgers University researchers recruited 88 participants who were aged 25 to 60 years and who met the required body mass index. Other considerations included stability of body weight, no drug-treated hypertension, and no history of coronary artery disease, stroke, and congestive heart failure.
Qualified participants were then randomly divided into two groups: those who received the garlic extract supplementation and those who received the placebo. The participants were also asked to maintain their habitual exercise and diet regimes for the duration of the study.
The researchers instructed the participants to take two capsules of the garlic extract or placebo with their breakfast every day for three months. The garlic extract supplement contained two percent allicin dosed at 400 milligrams per day, while the placebo contained pure microcrystalline cellulose.
Researchers recorded the participants’ body size and weight, blood pressure, and arterial stiffness. They also carried out biochemical analyses of metabolic parameters, such as plasma total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides.
Results revealed that taking garlic extract supplement for three months reduced arterial stiffness index, building on earlier research on garlic extract’s benefits. In addition, it modified endothelial biomarkers, which are indicators associated with cardiovascular risk, of the participants at the end of the treatment period.
“This suggests that [garlic extract] can be used to suppress chronic inflammation in obese individuals,” wrote the researchers.
Garlic is more than just a spice, it is a superfood. It provides many health benefits and is especially good for the heart. Here are some ways garlic supports heart health:
Read more news stories and studies on garlic and other superfoods by going to SuperFoods.news.
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Tagged Under: cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular risk, food as medicine, food cures, garlic, garlic extract, Heart, heart health, natural cures, natural medicine, natural remedies, obese, overweight, slender