Garlic has long been cherished in traditional medicine, but modern science now confirms that this humble kitchen staple—especially in the form of garlic powder—can deliver powerful benefits for cardiovascular health.
Clinical studies have consistently found that daily garlic powder intake, even in small amounts like 800 milligrams (about a quarter teaspoon), can significantly improve artery function in patients with heart disease. Over the course of just three months, participants in one trial saw their arterial function improve by more than 50 percent.
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses support these findings, showing that garlic supplementation can reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Drops of 7 mmHg and 5 mmHg, respectively, may not sound dramatic, but they are enough to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular complications.
In people with mildly elevated cholesterol, garlic powder tablets have also been shown to reduce total cholesterol by over 11 percent and LDL (the “bad”) cholesterol by nearly 14 percent. These improvements reflect a notable reduction in heart disease risk across multiple fronts.
Garlic Fights Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Inflammation is a silent driver of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, arthritis, and even some cancers. Garlic powder is rich in sulfur-containing compounds—such as allicin—that deliver potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Clinical trials have shown that garlic supplementation reduces levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), two key markers of inflammation in the body.
In addition to quelling inflammation, garlic enhances the body’s antioxidant defenses. Studies have demonstrated improved antioxidant capacity and reduced oxidative stress in diverse groups, from postmenopausal women to people with obesity.
Oxidative stress, the result of too many free radicals damaging cells, plays a role in aging, chronic illness, and immune dysfunction. Garlic powder helps to neutralize these harmful compounds, protecting tissues and promoting overall health. CONTINUE READING