Garlic: A Natural Agent for Managing Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels Garlic, long celebrated for its culinary and medicinal properties, may offer significant benefits for blood sugar and cholesterol management. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients sheds light on how garlic consumption can positively impact these vital health parameters. Study Summary: The review encompassed data from 22 studies, involving a total of 1,567 participants including a diverse group of men and women, aged 18 to 80, from various countries, including Canada, Iran, Pakistan, India, the United States, and others. Researchers conducted an extensive review of randomized controlled trials to evaluate garlic's effects on key health indicators including fasting blood glucose (FBG, which indicates blood sugar levels after fasting), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c, which shows long-term blood sugar control over approximately three months), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, often referred to as "good" cholesterol), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, known as "bad" cholesterol), and triglycerides (TG). These indicators were crucial in assessing the overall impact of garlic on both blood sugar and lipid profiles. By analyzing these specific metrics, the researchers aimed to provide a clear picture of how garlic supplementation could benefit metabolic health. Findings: The levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) significantly decreased. Conversely, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels increased significantly, while triglyceride (TG) levels remained within the typical range, unaffected by garlic intake. Key Takeaways: Garlic has proven beneficial in managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels, making it a valuable addition to dietary interventions aimed at improving metabolic health. However, its effect on triglycerides remains inconclusive. There's a need for further research to standardize dosages and formulations of garlic.
Great extensive and cumulative research findings! Garlic is used in many cultures to flavor dishes that include whole foods, vegetables, and legumes, and together, the sugar and cholesterol-lowering benefits can be additive.
Whats the amount of garlic needed to see these health effects?
Very informative! One garlic a day is very beneficial for our health. Thank you sharing, Rupa Health.
Informative❤️
Citation: DOI: 10.3390/nu16111692 Name of the Study: Effects of Garlic on Glucose Parameters and Lipid Profile: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Randomized Controlled Trials.