Saturday, March 16, 2024
HomeHealthDoes Garlic Lower Blood Pressure

Does Garlic Lower Blood Pressure

What About Garlic And Cholesterol

How to Lower Blood Pressure with Garlic

While some studies have shown that garlic can benefit cholesterol levels, more research is needed. In particular, scientists are looking to learn more about its long-term effect on cholesterol and the heart.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that circulates in your blood. There are two types of cholesterol: “bad” cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol, and “good” cholesterol, or HDL cholesterol. Having too much LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol in your blood can raise your risk for severe health problems.

A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine concluded that a garlic-lemon juice mixture may benefit cholesterol. The small study, which involved 112 people ages 30-60, showed that garlic and lemon juice helped decrease total cholesterol and lower blood pressure. However, researchers recorded the results after only eight weeks.

An analysis of studies done between 1955-2013 also showed that garlic “moderately to significantly” lowers total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. When taken for more than two months, the garlic helped reduce total cholesterol by 8%.

Nonenzymatic Conversion Of Garlic

In a series of elegant experiments, Benavides et al showed that garlic-derived polysulfides can produce H2S under physiologically relevant O2 conditions in rat aortic tissue. They provided evidence for a mechanism involving reduced thiols. While it is unknown which garlic bioactives can release H2S nonenzymatically, it has been hypothesized that the major bioactive S-allylcysteine found in aged garlic extract may also act as a substrate for the enzyme CSE to produce H2S.

May Cause Gastric Issues

One Japanese study speaks about enteric-coated garlic products . These garlic products, upon ingestion, resulted in the reddening of the gastric mucous membrane . The results suggest that caution must be exercised before using garlic and related products as they may have undesirable effects on gastric health.

In fact, as against popular belief, there is no evidence that links garlic intake to the prevention of gastric cancer .

Read Also: Vodka Blood Pressure

May Cause Nausea Vomiting And Heartburn

Anecdotal evidence suggests that consuming fresh garlic bulbs on an empty stomach may cause nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Certain observational studies have also stated that taking garlic orally can cause heartburn and nausea . Excess garlic intake may also cause GERD in some individuals. More research is needed to understand this side effect of garlic.

Garlic Lowers Blood Pressure In Hypertensive Subjects Improves Arterial Stiffness And Gut Microbiota: A Review And Meta

Does Garlic Reduce Blood Pressure

1National Institute of Integrative Medicine , Hawthorn, Melbourne, Victoria 3122, Australia

2Department of General Practice, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia

3Torrens University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia

Correspondence to

Don’t Miss: How To Calibrate Blood Pressure Monitor Omron

What Theresearch Tells Us

Garlic may have a modest effect on blood pressure, but probably not enough to replace medication for someone who needs drugs to reach blood pressure goals.

There does seem to be some effect, though, perhaps enough to warrant further investigation. The Journal of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology review article, which looked at the impact of a variety of dietary components on blood pressure, found more than a few studies reporting decreases in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure in people taking garlic supplements in the form of garlic powder, garlic oil and garlic extract.

A more recent article, an umbrella review of 16 meta-analyses of the effects of garlic on multiple health outcomes, published in Food Science and Nutrition in August 2019, also found an association between garlic consumption averaging 600 to 900 milligrams daily in supplemental form and what the study authors deemed to be a significant decrease in blood pressure.

While these differences may be statistically significant in a scientific analysis the range reported in the meta-analysis was a decrease of 5 to 8 millimeters of mercury in systolic blood pressure and about 3 to 4 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure they might not make a big enough difference to help someone with hypertension.

According to the Mayo Clinic, 145/97 would still be considered stage II hypertension. Stage I hypertension is defined as a systolic reading of 130 to 139 or a diastolic reading over 80.

Effect Of Garlic On Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is attributed to an estimated 70% of heart attacks, strokes, and chronic heart failure, leading to 37% of cardiovascular deaths in Western countries and 13.5% globally .3 Epidemiologic studies describe a continuous association between blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk, suggesting a reduction in high systolic blood pressure by 20 mm Hg and a reduction in high diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg to be associated with a 50% risk reduction in developing cardiovascular disease . Hypertension affects 30% of adults in Western countries, with 68 million adults in the United States alone . Although management of blood pressure in family practice has increased in the past 20 y, a large proportion of adults have uncontrolled blood pressure , 9% have untreated blood pressure, and half of those treated do not achieve optimal control .

Recommended Reading: Do Onions Lower Blood Pressure

Things To Consider Before Taking Garlic For Hypertension

Underling diseases and side effects

It is more appropriate to seek medical advice before embarking on any self-medication. A doctor, pharmacist or other health care provider should be consulted on the safety of the use of garlic if you are having a:

  • Stomach ulcer.
  • Blood clotting disorders or bleeding.

Pregnancy

It is considered safe to include garlic as a flavoring ingredient in food during pregnancy. But what is not yet clear is if taking it in place of medicine will harm an unborn baby. It is, therefore, more appropriate to consult professionals for advice before making use of garlic as a medicine during pregnancy.

Tip: You should watch for Diabetes during Pregnancy too.

Breast Feeding

Consumption of garlic by a nursing mother could harm the baby while feeding on breast milk. Therefore, it is not proper to administer any herbal supplement to a child without consulting a medical professional, which also include garlic.

Use in Children

Children are not advisable to consume garlic as pills without medical advice.

Before Surgical Procedures

Patients who are going in for surgery or any medical procedure are not expected to take in garlic at least two weeks to the time. This is because garlic can affect blood-clotting and may increase the likelihood of bleeding.

Things to Avoid While Taking Garlic for Hypertension

It is crucial to note that some other supplements in the market shouldnt be merged with garlic because the end result could be fatal.

  • Clove,

What Is The Best Time To Eat Garlic

How garlic lowers blood pressure (MUST LEARN)

Garlic on empty stomach is very effective for preventing and curing different diseases. Studies have shown that garlic if eaten on an empty stomach acts as a powerful antibiotic. It is more effective when you eat it before breakfast because bacteria is exposed and cannot defend itself from succumbing to its power.

You May Like: Spicy Food High Blood Pressure

Lentils And Other Pulses

Lentils are a staple of many diets around the world, as they are an excellent source of vegetarian protein and fiber.

In 2014, researchers who studied the effects of a diet rich in pulses on rats reported of blood pressure and cholesterol. A total of 30 percent of the rats diet comprised pulses, including beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas.

Lentils are very versatile. Many people use them as a vegetarian alternative to minced beef or to add bulk to salads, stews, and soups. A range of lentils is available for purchase online.

Best Garlic Supplements For High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension as it is otherwise known affects 75 million people in America alone. Worldwide, it is considered to be one of the main causes of a number of fatal conditions.

If you are one of the millions of people suffering from this fairly common condition then this article is for you. We are looking at the 6 best garlic supplements for high blood pressure.

There are of course more than one type of treatment for high blood pressure. And of the many types available garlic supplements have proven to have amongst the best effects. The secret is really no secret at all. It is of course the all-natural superfood that is garlic.

Garlic has been used as a means of affecting blood pressure for centuries. Cultures all over the world have used this food to treat a wide range of cardiovascular disorders and to increase both heart and circulatory health. Garlic has been a proven source for health benefits all over the body.

Read our lemon and garlic drink to reduce cholesterol article here to see another mainstream problem that garlic can help with. Or why not check out this amazing video which details how you can help lower your blood pressure using garlic and other natural remedies.

So from skin to hair care and cholesterol reducing properties to the ability to lower blood pressure, garlic really is the answer. And you will be able to both find and take garlic in several different forms.

  • Carbohydrates
  • Protein

Read Also: Do Onions Lower Blood Pressure

Supplements To Avoid When Dealing With High Blood Pressure

Dear Mayo Clinic:

What are the dangers of taking over-the-counter supplements? I am on blood pressure medication and have heard that there are some supplements that may interfere.

Answer:

You ‘ve heard correctly. Some supplements should be avoided when you are dealing with high blood pressure. Yet, preliminary evidence shows that a couple of supplements may be beneficial in your situation.

While supplements may be labeled “natural” and don ‘t require a prescription, they can affect the body in many ways. Supplements can interact with medications, change the body ‘s metabolism and cause side effects. Baseline advice for any supplements is to talk with your health care provider before you take them no matter how harmless they may seem.

With high blood pressure, supplements on your caution list should include:

Two supplements that have shown some benefit in your circumstance are fish oil and garlic.

Research has confirmed that routinely eating fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and trout, can reduce the risk of heart disease and death. The heart benefits seem strongest when eating fatty fish twice a week. For those who don ‘t like or can ‘t eat fish, a fish oil supplement is an option. Some studies have shown that taking a fish oil supplement modestly reduces blood pressure in patients with mild hypertension. The evidence isn ‘t strong enough, however, for an all-out endorsement of fish oil as a means to lower blood pressure.

Here’s How You Can Include Garlic Can Lower Your Blood Pressure:

Here

1. Raw garlic: Eating fresh, raw garlic is one among the herbal remedies for controlling high blood pressure. Chewing raw garlic will activate allinase for releasing maximum allicin. It should be consumed within one to two hours of activating allicin for added health benefits. You can eat this regularly to control your blood pressure.

2. Garlic powder: Including garlic in your daily diet can lower your blood pressure. About 600-900 mg of garlic powder will give about 9-12% reduction in the increased blood pressure. A 600 mg dose of garlic powder contains 3.6 mg allicin and 900 mg contain 5.4 mg of allicin.

Also read: Pulses Can Control High Blood Pressure: Here’s How

3. Salads: You can also add thin slices of garlic directly to your favourite salads. Minced raw garlic is also a good option to make your salads delicious yet healthy. Make this grated garlic salad a part of your daily diet and forget about other costly herbs for high blood pressure.

4. Garlic milk: This drink works as a medicine and is beneficial for your overall health. To prepare this drink you need ten to twelve peeled and minced cloves of garlic. Add the cloves of garlic into warm milk. You can even add a tablespoon of honey into the drink for better results.

Read Also: Onions And Blood Pressure

Is It Good To Eat A Clove Of Garlic Everyday

It is safe to eat a clove of garlic as long as you are not allergic to it. However, you must be aware that it has a strong pungent smell that may give you garlicky breath. Also, having a large amount of garlic at once may give you a burning sensation inside the mouth, heartburn, gases, and loose motions.

Try Meditation Or Yoga

Mindfulness and meditation, including transcendental meditation, have long been used and studied as methods to reduce stress. A 2012 study notes that one university program in Massachusetts has had more than 19,000 people participate in a meditation and mindfulness program to reduce stress .

Yoga, which commonly involves breathing control, posture, and meditation techniques, can also be effective in reducing stress and blood pressure.

A 2013 review on yoga and blood pressure found an average blood pressure decrease of 3.62 mm Hg diastolic and 4.17 mm Hg systolic when compared to those who didnt exercise. Studies of yoga practices that included breath control, postures, and meditation were nearly twice as effective as yoga practices that didnt include all three of these elements .

Also Check: Do Onions Lower Blood Pressure

Garlic Hypertension And Elevated Hcy

Many clinical and epidemiological studies have found a positive correlation between HCy plasma levels, endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular disorders. Conditions linked to endothelial dysfunction, such as acute ischemic stroke with greater arterial stiffness and stress-induced hypertension, have been reported in hyperhomocysteinemia ., Furthermore, serum concentrations of the sulfur-containing thiols HCy, cysteine, and GSH have shown to be independently associated with cardiovascular risk scores at the population level. However, whether elevated levels of HCy are primary or secondary risk factors for cardiovascular disease is less clear., There is a clear negative correlation between elevated HCy levels and brain and cognitive function.,

On the other hand, in carriers of a deficient methylene-tetra-hydro-folate-reductase variant, elevated HCy due to impaired remethylation may cause increased levels of H2S, which has been linked to an increase in platelet activation and may contribute to the development of recurrent arterial and venous thrombosis in these patients. It is therefore possible that supplementation with H2S-boosting nutrients, such as garlic, may be counterproductive in individuals with MTHFR deficiency.

Thus, garlic may have an effect on HCy metabolism independent of the effect of B vitamins in addition to boosting H2S production.

How Do Ginger And Garlic Help Against Hypertension

How to Lower Your Blood Pressure with Garlic Pills

Many ingredients that are easily found in your kitchen have medicinal benefits. Garlic and Ginger are two such items that are recommended by elders and medical professionals to improve your health. Some of the most prominent health issues in the current time include heart problems and high blood pressure. Ginger and garlic are two herbs that can help you in preventing these.

Ginger has medicinal properties that help in preventing blood clots in the blood vessels of the heart. The antioxidants present in ginger help in reducing the formation of plaq in the arteries caused by high cholesterol. Consuming it in small amounts with your food or tea can be very beneficial for you.

The antioxidant present in garlic help in recovering from the damage caused by high blood pressure. It contains allicin which is a compound that helps with controlling blood pressure. It also prevents cardiovascular diseases and lowers bad cholesterol percentage. Eating one clove of garlic daily is enough to see its benefits. So, include ginger and garlic in your regular diet and improve your health with the help of our blogs on health and wellness to guide you!

You May Like: Does Spicy Food Cause High Blood Pressure

How Many Cloves Of Garlic Should You Eat A Day

Raw garlic also retains more allicin, which is the sulfur-containing compound responsible for many of garlics beneficial health effects. For best results, aim for around 12 cloves per day and reduce your intake if you experience any side effects, such as heartburn, acid reflux, or increased bleeding.

Eat Garlic Or Take Garlic Extract Supplements

Fresh garlic or garlic extract are both widely used to lower blood pressure .

According to one clinical study, a time-release garlic extract preparation may have a greater effect on blood pressure than regular garlic powder tablets .

One 2012 review noted a study of 87 people with high blood pressure that found a diastolic reduction of 6 mm Hg and a systolic reduction of 12 mm Hg in those who consumed garlic, compared to people without any treatment (

Also Check: Does Cholesterol Raise Blood Pressure

What Should I Do If My Blood Pressure Is 160 Over 100

Your doctor

If your blood pressure is higher than 160/100 mmHg, then three visits are enough. If your blood pressure is higher than 140/90 mmHg, then five visits are needed before a diagnosis can be made. If either your systolic or diastolic blood pressure stays high, then the diagnosis of hypertension can be made.

Medications Changed By The Liver Substrates Interacts With Garlic

Amazing Foods That Lower Blood Pressure Naturally Without ...

Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver.Garlic oil might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down some medications. Taking garlic oil along with some medications that are changed by the liver can increase the effects and side effects of your medication. Before taking garlic oil talk to your healthcare provider if you take any medications that are changed by the liver.Some medications that are changed by the liver include acetaminophen, chlorzoxazone , ethanol, theophylline, and drugs used for anesthesia during surgery such as enflurane , halothane , isoflurane , and methoxyflurane .

Also Check: What Can Cause Temporary High Blood Pressure

RELATED ARTICLES

Popular Articles