Chia vs. Coriander Seed Water: Which Is Better for Your Gut, Digestion, and Heart?
High in fibre, calcium, and iron, both of them are a powerhouse of good health and well-being Starti...
Read More
Garlic does lead to a small but significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure
When it comes to keeping your blood pressure levels down, there are many natural ways and means you can follow. According to experts, garlic, one of the widely used herbs in Indian kitchens, does lead to a small but significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
How does garlic bring blood pressure down?
Studies suggest garlic supports a 16–40 per cent reduction in the risk of having a heart-related issue, including heart attack and stroke. According to doctors, allicin, the main bioactive compound found naturally in garlic, helps lower blood pressure.
It interferes with the production of angiotensin-converting enzymes, also known as ACE, which otherwise raises high blood pressure by narrowing your blood vessels. Allicin thereby promotes freer blood flow, which lowers blood pressure.
It also creates a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, protecting your blood vessels from damage. Acillin also enhances the production of nitric oxide, or NO, which relaxes the walls of arteries, resulting in lower blood pressure.
However, doctors say even though research suggests garlic does lower your blood pressure, it should still not be considered as a single way for treating hypertension. You must follow the doctor’s advice and, apart from medication, improve your diet and lifestyle habits as well.
How much garlic is good for your heart health?
According to various studies, a variety of garlic formulations can be used to lower blood pressure.
- 188 milligrams (mg) of a garlic powder containing egg yolk taken daily for 12 weeks
- 240 to 2,400 mg of aged garlic extract taken daily for two to 23 weeks
- 400 mg of raw garlic taken daily for six months
- 600 to 2,400 mg of garlic powder taken daily for eight to 24 weeks
- 12.3 mg of garlic oil daily for 16 weeks
Are garlic supplements safe for your heart?
Doctors say garlic supplements or pills are a safe and convenient way to consume garlic for most people. However, it is always better to consult with your healthcare provider before introducing garlic or any other new supplement into your daily routine, as in many people they can trigger the following side effects:
- Abdominal pain
- Body odour
- Breath odour
- Burping
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Anaphylaxis
- Swelling of tongue, lips, or throat
- Dizziness
- Drop in blood pressure
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Severe itching
- Breathlessness
Other natural ways to reduce blood pressure
You can benefit from a combination of medication and natural remedies that include lifestyle changes known to impact blood pressure.
Stop smoking
Follow a healthy diet and reduce salt intake
Stop consumption of alcohol
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
Stay active and exercise regularly
Manage and lower stress
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
Our Blog
Read Our Latest Blog
CDC Sounds The Alarm As Measles Spreads Across The US — Are You At Risk?
CDC Sounds The Alarm As Measles Spreads Across The US (Image Credits: iStock) Measles, a highly cont...
Read More