Garlic (Allium sativum) is a root vegetable that is well known for its medicinal properties in different countries across the world, for more than 5,000 years. The role of garlic in treating various health conditions ranging from hypertension to bacterial infections has been well ascertained. It has powerful antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral properties. Because of its multiple health benefits, traditionalists consider it to be a “wonder herb”.

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most prominent diseases of the 21st century. LDL (“bad cholesterol”) carry cholesterol from the liver to cells of the body and HDL (“good cholesterol”) collect cholesterol from the body’s tissues and return it to the liver. Hypercholesterolemia is a medical condition that contributes to the development of several cardiovascular diseases. Hypercholesterolemia is marked by an alarming increase in the levels of LDL. Dietary factors play a key role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Epidemiologic studies suggest an inverse correlation between garlic consumption and progression of cardiovascular diseases.

Mechanism of Action of Garlic

The increasing incidences of cardiovascular diseases are associated with multiple factors like, raised serum total cholesterol, raised LDL and an increase in LDL oxidation, increased platelet aggregation, hypertension, and smoking. Several in vitro studies suggest that garlic has the ability to reduce these parameters. Garlic can inhibit the enzymes involved in lipid synthesis, decrease platelet aggregation, prevent lipid peroxidation of oxidized erythrocytes and LDL and inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (Rahman and Lowe).

The root bulb of garlic is composed of water, sulfur compounds called thiosulfinates, amino acids, and numerous vitamins and minerals. According to Tattelman, one particular thiosulfinate called allicin is the active element in garlic, which is responsible for its numerous medicinal properties. Several clinical trials have been conducted which suggest the modest lipid-lowering capacity (lowering of the levels of LDL- cholesterol in particular) and antiplatelet activity of garlic. The organosulfur compound, Allicin, has been found to work at par with other cholesterol lowering drugs (Tattelman).

Several animal studies indicate that garlic and its constituents inhibit key enzymes involved in cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis in rat hepatocytes. The two enzymes which are directly involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis are human squalene monooxygenase and HMG-CoA reductase. Garlic and its constituents inhibit the action of these enzymes and control the synthesis of cholesterol (Rahman and Lowe). Studies also suggest that the aged garlic extract contains S-allylcysteine (SAC). This water soluble compound is less cytotoxic and more efficient in inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis (Rahman and Lowe).

The oxidative stress inside our body leads to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. As garlic is rich in antioxidants, it has the potency to reduce the oxidative stress and thus control the occurrence of cardiovascular disease.

Clinical Evidences That Suggest the Role of Garlic on Cholesterol Levels

A Two meta-analyses have been conducted in 1993 and 1994 to study the effect of garlic on cholesterol levels. About 9-12% reduction in the cholesterol levels was found in experimental group in comparison to placebo after the consumption of garlic. A more recent meta-analysis conducted in 2001 suggests that standardized dried garlic powder can reduce total cholesterol levels (19.2 mg per dL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (6.7 mg per dL) and triglyceride levels (21.1 mg per dL) after 8-12 weeks of treatment (Tattelman).

A very recent meta-analysis conducted by Kwak and his group in 2014 suggests that garlic powder intake reduces the cardiovascular disease risk factors such as total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting blood glucose levels and blood pressure (Kwak, et al).

Stay Healthy With Garlic

Based on several experimental studies and clinical trials, we can conclude that garlic supplementation has the potential for cardiovascular protection based on the reduction of risk factors such as hypertension and total cholesterol. Garlic is generally safe and can be consumed by people of all the age groups. Proper medication and adoption of healthy lifestyle habits would control the progression of hypercholesterolemia. Consumption of garlic powder would further add to this, as it can lower the LDL-cholesterol levels.

Soyabean (Glycine max) is a leguminous plant native to East Asia, which is widely cultivated for the expensive edible oil extracted from it. After the extraction of oil, the defatted remnant is known as Soybean extract. This extract is a rich source of protein and is commonly used as animal feed. The soya bean seeds are rich in phytic acid, dietary minerals and B vitamin.

Cardiovascular diseases are increasing at an alarming rate across the world. The unbalanced lipid metabolism (dyslipidemia) is the primary risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases. Several drugs currently used for the management of dyslipidemia are associated with side effects. Current research is more focused towards the use of medicinal plants for the improvement of health. The extract of soya beans has been found to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

How does soya bean extract reduce the cholesterol levels?

Hyperlipidemia is a broad term used to denote raised serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC or bad cholesterol) and triglycerides (TG). Long term hyperlipidemia can cause atherosclerosis that might prove to be a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke. The methanolic extract of soya bean seeds has been found to be effective in preventing increase in serum lipid concentrations. Thus, it controls atherosclerosis and the occurrence of CAD consequently (Kingsley, et al).

In many women, the onset of menopause is marked by an increase in serum lipid profiles. This increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Animal studies suggest that soybean extract supplementation modulates the level of serum triacylglycerol in ovariectomized rats (rats in which ovary had been removed). Based on these results, one can understand that supplementation of soya extract in menopausal women might improve their lipid profiles and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (Lee et al).

The peptides present in soybean protein hydrolysate (SPH) are mainly responsible for the hypocholesterolemic effect. These peptides trigger the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-R) synthesis. When these receptors are synthesized in greater number, the binding between the low-density lipoproteins and the receptors is enhanced. This enhances the catabolism or breakdown of the intracellular cholesterol and reduces the cholesterol synthesis simultaneously. The net outcome of this mode of action is reduced cholesterol levels in blood (Cho, Juillerat et al).

In addition, the leaf extract of soy plant also shows cardio-protective effects. It triggers the dilation of the arteries, so, the serum lipid profile is modulated positively. It prevents the occurrence of atherosclerosis (Han, Li, et al).

Evidences That Suggest the Cholesterol Lowering Effect of Soya Bean Extract

A meta-analysis conducted on laboratory animals suggests that the consumption of soy protein reduces the concentration of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides without significantly affecting serum HDL cholesterol concentrations (Anderson, et al).

During a clinical trial, the animal protein in the diet of human beings was substituted with soy protein. This substitution resulted in the lowering of total cholesterol levels and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol levels in individuals with hypercholesterolemia. Triglycerides were also found to be reduced, particularly in subjects with hypertriglyceridemia (Carroll).

Improve Your Health with Soybean Extract

Guggulu extract is an oleogum resin obtained from guggul tree (Commiphora mukul). This tree is native to India, but is also found in Bangladesh and Pakistan. This resin is tapped from the tree during the winters. This extract has been used to treat several diseases like hyper-cholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, rheumatism, and obesity, since time immemorial. The bioactive constituent responsible for the therapeutic effects of Guggulu extract is Guggulsterone.

After studying its effect in animal models, the guggulu extract has been tested during different clinical and pre-clinical studies. After conducting multiple pharmacological activities, scientists have come to the conclusion that guggulu extract can address several cardiovascular problems efficiently. Due to the rapid changes in modern life style, the incidences of cardiovascular diseases have risen up at an alarming rate. A supplement like guggulu extract can help us to cope up with these rapid changes and keep us healthy.

How does Guggulu Extract lower cholesterol levels?

Studies suggest that guggulsterone can reduce the cholesterol levels by converting cholesterol to bile acids, followed by its removal from blood through enterohepatic circulation (circulation of biliary acids, bilirubin, drugs and other substances from liver to small intestines, where they get either absorbed or eliminated through the alimentary canal). Guggulsterone shows its effect by either activating or suppressing the genes involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway.

Farnesoid x receptor (FXR) is a key transcriptional regulator that maintains the balance between the cholesterol levels and bile acids. Guggulsterone negates the action of FXR and lowers the cholesterol levels. Usually when excess of bile acids are formed in the liver, a signal is sent to stop the further conversion of cholesterol into bile acids. Guggulsterone obstructs this signal and allows the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids. Simultaneously, it does not allow the bile acids to accumulate in the liver. They are removed from the liver and enter the blood stream (Deng).

A recent study suggests that guggulsterone activates the bile salt export pump (BSEP), which removes the cholesterol metabolites from the liver. Through this action, it favors the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids and thus controls the lipid levels (Deng).

A few other mechanisms have also been proposed that suggest the mode of action of Guggulsterone. Guggul promotes the catabolism of plasma LDL cholesterol and reduces its levels in the blood. Guggulsterone increases the hepatic binding sites for LDL cholesterol and thus promotes the clearance of cholesterol through liver (Kelly and Michael).

Evidences that support the hypolipidemic activity of guggul

An Indian medical researcher, G.V.Satyavati, was the first person to study the hypolipidemic effects of guggul on rabbits and introduce this extract to the scientific world. She fed a group of experimental rabbits with hydrogenated vegetable oil to raise their cholesterol levels and later fed them with guggul. The other group of rabbits was kept as a control. At the end of the study, the experimental rabbits showed a reduction in serum cholesterol and lipid levels. Moreover, the arteries of these rabbits did not show the presence of fatty streaks or plaque deposits. This study suggested that guggul may be effective in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis (Deng).

In another study, 191 patients affected by hyperlipidemia were chosen. The experimental group was given a diet containing guggulsterone. After a span of 3 or 6 months of treatment, a significant decrease in the levels of total cholesterol and LDL- cholesterol was noticed (Muscariello, Nasti, et al). Apart from these studies, several clinical trials have been done to compare efficiency of guggulsterone with the normally used drugs. Guggulsterone has proved to be either more efficient or at par with these drugs.

Get relieved from high cholesterol levels through Guggulu extract

The use Guggulu extract as a lipid-lowering drug was legally approved in India in June 1986. As it lowers the cholesterol levels through several mechanisms, it is healthy for the heart too. It also provides relief from hypertension and the arteries function well. In order to control the increasing incidences of cardiovascular diseases, one should adopt regular healthy life style habits. Along with this, the consumption guggulu extract would keep our heart healthy for a longer duration of time.

Policosanol is a natural substance derived from sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum L) wax. It consists of a mixture of higher aliphatic primary alcohols which are bestowed with cholesterol-lowering properties. Policosanol obtained from Cuban sugar cane is sold in more than 40 countries, mainly because of its lipid lowering tendency. It is also well known for its antithrombotic, plaque stabilizing, and antioxidant actions.

The incidences of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke are increasing at an alarming rate. The current stressful life is giving a serious blow to the normal health of a person. In addition to this, the calorie rich food that we currently consume also adds to cholesterol levels. People are becoming dependent on several drugs at a very young age. Scientists are in a search for certain natural substances that can bring down our cholesterol levels and keep our heart healthy. Studies suggest that when policosanol is given as a supplement, it can normalize the cholesterol levels, without any side effects. It works at par with many of the traditionally used drugs.

How does Policosanol lower cholesterol levels?

Sugar cane policosanols (SCP) control the cholesterol levels through various mechanisms. They suppress the cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting the enzymes involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. SCP mainly acts at a step between acetate and mevalonate production within the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. They obstruct the cholesterol synthesis in the liver (Kassis and Jones).

SCPs also prevent the formation of arterial lesions. This keeps the arteries healthy and prevents atherosclerosis. As a result, blood flow to the heart is maintained at normal levels and this keeps the heart healthy (Noa M, et al, 1995).

One of the most vital actions shown by policosanols is the prevention of the oxidation of low density lipids (LDL). Oxidation of LDL is very dangerous as the oxidized LDL creates a chronic inflammatory response that leads to the destruction of the blood vessels. Oxidized LDL can also trigger the activity of metalloproteinase enzymes. These enzymes interfere with the protective effects of high density lipids (HDL). This also leads to the destruction of the blood vessels (Menendez, et al.). So on the whole, policosanols prevent the destruction of the blood vessels.

The healthy arteries are marked by a smooth lining of cells. This allows the blood to flow through these vessels without any obstruction. In case of some cardiovascular diseases, this lining of cells becomes thick due to the overgrowth of the cells and obstructs the flow of blood. Animal studies suggest that policosanol reduces the proliferation of the cells that results into narrowing of the arteries (Noa, et al, 1998).

Evidences That Suggest the Role of Policosanol on Cholesterol Levels

A double blind placebo controlled study was conducted to analyze the effect of 20 or 40 mg/day of policosanol on patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. After 24 weeks of such treatment, a significant reduction in the LDL-cholesterol levels was noticed. There was a marginal increase in HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels (Castaño, et al, 2001).

To compare the efficacy of policosanol with the standard lipid-lowering drugs, a randomised, single-blind, parallel-group study was conducted in older patients (60-80 years) with type II hypercholesterolaemia. After 8 weeks of such treatment, policosanol led to a marginal decrease in the LDL cholesterol levels but a significant increase in HDL cholesterol levels. Further, policosanol was well tolerated by these patients (Castaño, et al, 2003).

To compare the efficacy of policosanol with the standard lipid-lowering drugs, a randomised, single-blind, parallel-group study was conducted in older patients (60-80 years) with type II hypercholesterolaemia. After 8 weeks of such treatment, policosanol led to a marginal decrease in the LDL cholesterol levels but a significant increase in HDL cholesterol levels. Further, policosanol was well tolerated by these patients (Castaño, et al, 2003).

Manage the cholesterol levels with Policosanol

Regular exercise and good diet are a must to keep ones heart healthy. Policosanol enhances endurance and oxygen utilization during exercise. In fact, patients have shown an improvement in treadmill exercise-ECG tests after treatment with policosanol. Due to these promising results, it is believed that Policosanol can be a very promising phytochemical alternative to classic lipid-lowering agents. So consume policosanol and keep your heart healthy.

A natural anti-oxidant of the body - Alpha Lipoic Acid

Fenugreek alternatively known as Greek Hay and Fenigreek, is a leguminous herb that is widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes. It is also used as fodder in many parts of the world. The medicinal properties of fenugreek were first recognized in countries like Greece, Italy and Egypt. The seeds of fenugreek are rich in protein, potassium, vitamin C and other active elements such as saponins, lysine, L-tryptophan, diosgenin, tigogenin and 4-hydroxy leucine.

Fenugreek can provide relief from a large number of problems like digestive problems, gout, erectile dysfunction and eczema. Above all, it has numerous properties that help it to fight diabetes and bring down blood sugar. Extensive research has been conducted to study the efficacy of fenugreek in treatment of diabetes.

Mechanism of Action of Fenugreek

Fenugreek lowers the blood sugar levels in multiple ways. These seeds are rich in soluble fibers like galactomannan. This fiber gives a feeling of satiety. It also slows down the process of digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. 4-Hydroxy leucine found in these seeds stimulates insulin secretion by pancreatic cells and lowers absorption of glucose in intestines (Kamakhya Kumar et al).

Some of the animal studies have proved that fenugreek seed extracts can slow down the action of enzymes that help in the digestion of carbohydrates thus reducing the gastrointestinal absorption of glucose. Thus fenugreek seeds are highly efficient in lowering the post-prandial glucose levels. The in vitro studies have shown that these seeds can also stimulate the glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. The utilization of glucose lowers its levels in blood (Neelakantan, et al).

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with chronic hyperglycemia. Prolonged hyperglycemia leads to long-term dysfunction and failure of different organs and increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. These patients exhibit insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. These patients do not need insulin treatment during the initial stages. Fenugreek seeds increase the number of insulin receptors and thus help in overcoming the insulin resistance (Ríos et al).

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) is expressed in many tissues and controls energy homeostasis in these tissues. GLP-1 analogs bind with these receptors and enhance the insulin secretion. An active compound called N55 was isolated from these seeds which enhances the GLP-1 binding by 40 fold. This binding enhances the insulin secretion and lowers the blood glucose levels.

Evidences that Suggest the Anti-Diabetic Properties of Fenugreek

According to the study conducted by Neelakantan in 2004, almost 10 different clinical trials were conducted to study the efficacy of fenugreek on diabetic patients. Most of the studies suggest a significant reduction in the fasting blood glucose levels and post-prandial glucose levels (Neelakantan, et al).

Fenfuro is a novel substance detected in fenugreek seed extract. A multi-center, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, study was conducted for a period of 3 months to study the efficacy of Fenfuro (500 mg), in 154, type 2 diabetes patients. Fenfuro caused significant reduction in both fasting plasma and post-prandial blood sugar levels. Fenfuro proved to be safe and efficient in alleviating the symptoms of T2D in humans (Bagchi D, et al).

In another study, a single dose of 25 g of fenugreek seeds, 5 g of gum isolate or 150 g of leaves were given to a group of healthy subjects. The results showed that, the rise in plasma glucose after a dose of glucose or meal was prevented, in those people who consumed fenugreek seeds.

Use Fenugreek and Reduce Your Blood Sugar Levels Naturally

Fenugreek seeds are a single solution to several problems. The extract of fenugreek seeds can treat diabetes without any side effects. It is also effective in pre-diabetes condition as it slows down the progression of the disease. There is no doubt that fenugreek is an attractive option when one wants to overcome diabetes through natural options. So consume fenugreek and stay away from diabetes.