Effects of an Optimized Aged Garlic Extract on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Moderate Hypercholesterolemic...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Health
• Nutraceuticals
• Dietary Interventions

Background:

• Aged black garlic (ABG) consumption is linked to improved cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.
• The efficacy of ABG depends on its aging process and chemical composition, particularly S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a standardized ABG extract (1.25 mg SAC) combined with dietary advice on CVD risk factors in hypercholesterolemic individuals.
• To assess changes in blood pressure and other CVD biomarkers.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, crossover study involving 67 hypercholesterolemic participants.
• Participants received 250 mg ABG extract or placebo daily for 6 weeks, with a 3-week washout period.
• Biomarkers including blood pressure were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• ABG extract significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by -5.85 mm Hg compared to placebo.
• The reduction in DBP was more pronounced in men with baseline DBP > 75 mm Hg.
• No significant changes were observed in other CVD risk biomarkers.

Conclusions:

• Daily intake of a well-characterized ABG extract standardized for SAC can decrease DBP in individuals with moderate hypercholesterolemia.
• ABG extract shows potential as a complementary approach to manage blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.