Garlic is a staple in most kitchens around the world, and it’s widely known for its pungent smell and sharp taste. Garlic has been used for centuries as a flavor enhancer in cooking, but did you know that garlic also has several health benefits? One form of garlic that is gaining popularity for its health benefits is aged garlic extract (AGE).
AGE is made by extracting fresh garlic and aging it under controlled conditions without heat or moisture. The process converts the unstable compounds found in fresh garlic into more stable ones that have potential health benefits. In this post, we will discuss some of the top-aged garlic extract benefits.
1. Cardiovascular Health
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with high blood pressure being one of its primary risk factors. AGE may help lower blood pressure levels by relaxing blood vessels’ walls and improving circulation to vital organs such as the heart.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that daily intake of 2.4 grams of AGE reduced systolic blood pressure significantly compared to those who took a placebo. Another study conducted on patients with coronary artery calcification found that taking 2.4 grams/day conferred significant reductions in arterial plaque volume compared to placebo.
2. Immune System Booster
The immune system plays an essential role in fighting infections and illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Research has shown that AGE can increase white blood cell production and enhance immune function.
In a randomized clinical trial involving 120 healthy volunteers over three months, those taking AGE reported fewer colds than those taking placebos; they also enjoyed less severe symptoms when they did catch colds.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation occurs when your body’s cells are damaged due to injury or illness caused by environmental stressors like pollution or smoking cigarettes.Many chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes mellitus type two (DMT2), cancer are linked with inflammation . AGE may help reduce inflammation levels, thus reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that taking 2.56 grams/day of aged garlic extract for six weeks significantly reduced inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women compared to placebo.
4. Cancer Prevention
AGE has been studied for its potential to prevent or slow down cancer growth due to its high antioxidant content and immune-boosting properties. Several studies suggest that AGE can inhibit tumor cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (cell death) in different types of cancer cells such as bladder, colon, prostate, breast among others .
5. Liver Health
The liver is responsible for filtering toxins from your body and plays a crucial role in overall health. Studies have shown that AGE may help improve liver function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation on liver cells.
A clinical trial involving patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease found that taking 1.2 grams/day of AGE improved liver enzyme levels significantly compared to those who took a placebo.
6. Improved Bone Health
As we age, bone density decreases, leading to an increased risk of fractures or osteoporosis; however, some studies suggest that AGE may help improve bone health by increasing collagen production and calcium absorption.
In one study involving postmenopausal women with low bone density , taking 3g/daily for six months resulted in significant increases in collagen production and better bone microarchitecture than those who took placebos.
7. Anti-Aging Properties
AGE’s antioxidant properties play a vital role in protecting cells from free radicals’ damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution or smoking cigarettes linked with aging . Consuming garlic regularly may reduce oxidative stress levels and delay signs of aging like wrinkles or dark spots on skin
8. Stress Relief
Stress is inevitable; it affects our physical health as well as mental wellbeing . Daily supplementation with aged garlic extract has been shown to lower cortisol levels associated with chronic stress, reducing anxiety and promoting better sleep.
In conclusion, aged garlic extract is becoming a popular supplement due to its many health benefits. It may help improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation levels, prevent cancer growth or liver damage , improve bone density and microarchitecture , delay signs of aging like wrinkles by preventing oxidative stress on cells and relieve chronic stress by lowering cortisol levels . However it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements especially if you have preexisting medical conditions or take other medications.
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