Think you know the powers of garlic? Think again? The humble herb contains some powerful ingredients. Cardiologist Dr Jason Kaplan explains how these bulbs may help your heart become, and stay, stronger.
According to the Australian Heart Foundation, almost six million Australian adults have been shown to have a risk factor for cardiovascular problems, one of the biggest health concerns in the nation. While lifestyle factors, such as diet, weight, exercise, reducing stress and sleep habits can play a large part in keeping your heart healthy, a recent study has shown the heart health benefits of aged garlic extract.
The study, published in Frontiers of Nutrition, found that Kyolic aged garlic extract (KAGE) was effective in reducing blood pressure in patients with hypertension and has the potential to improve arterial stiffness (which can then subsequently reduce the risk of cardiac events), inflammation and gut health. The study found that Kyolic aged garlic extract made arteries more flexible and reduced arterial age by approximately 5 years in a few months.
The study also found that patients who took Kyolic aged garlic extract reported improved gut health: an imbalance of which is linked to poor cardiovascular health.
Those who suffer from side-effects of blood pressure medication – up to 60 per cent of patients – may find that Kyolic aged garlic extract is a possible alternative to treating blood pressure showing similar BP lowering ability to some commonly prescribed medications. It may also act as an adjunct to other blood pressure lowering agents.
This isn’t the first time that aged garlic has hit the headlines for its heart health properties. Another study, published in the Journal of Nutrition found that aged garlic extract showed significant promise in its ability to reverse the build-up of plaque in arteries. It was found that it reduced the amount of accumulated “soft plaque” in the arteries as well as preventing new plaque from forming.
Interestingly, although raw garlic does have some health benefits – fighting bacterial infections, supporting the immune system, and boosting antioxidants – it does not have the same benefits to heart health, since garlic loses its active component, allicin, when you cook it.
So how is the best way to include aged garlic into your healthy diet, if cooking it may not be enough. Of course, continue to use it as part of your balanced meal plan. However, speak to your doctor or health professional for advice on whether including the aged garlic supplement may be a positive choice for you and your health.
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