Garlic has a significant impact on various aspects of health. It has a particularly positive effect on blood sugar levels and blood fat levels. Garlic can also improve cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
A new study involving experts from Xizang Minzu University in China examined the effects of garlic on blood lipids and blood sugar levels. The results can be read in the English-language journal “Nutrients”.
Glucose and lipid metabolism investigated
The effect of garlic on glucose and lipid metabolism in humans is still controversial, explains the team. The researchers therefore attempted to provide clarity through a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis of the available studies.
The team searched four different databases (Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science) to identify studies that looked at garlic and glucose and lipid metabolism.
Using these data, the researchers attempted to evaluate the overall effects of garlic and garlic supplements on fasting blood sugar, glycosylated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
This is the effect of garlic
Garlic was found to be effective in lowering fasting blood sugar, glycosylated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and also in increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
The team also found that garlic has no significant effect on triglyceride levels.
In summary, the research team concluded that garlic effectively lowers blood sugar and blood lipids in a natural way.
Lower cholesterol effectively
The beneficial effect of garlic on cholesterol levels is also confirmed by another study, the results of which were published in the English-language journal “Annals of Internal Medicine”. This study found that consuming garlic can effectively lower cholesterol levels.
Overall, it seems advisable to ensure that you regularly consume garlic in your diet, but garlic supplements can also effectively lower cholesterol. (as)