Garlic, with its little white cloves full of flavor, is not just a culinary treasure. Garlic has been traditionally celebrated for its health benefits, one of which is its potential to help lower cholesterol levels. Studies have indicated that garlic can modestly reduce cholesterol levels, which could be particularly beneficial for those aiming to manage their heart health. The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, are thought to be responsible for these effects, providing a natural remedy for individuals looking to complement their heart-healthy lifestyle.
"According to a recent review, garlic has shown promise in reducing cholesterol levels," says Alyssa Simpson, RDN, CGN, CLT, owner of Nutrition Resolution in Phoenix, AZ. This is believed to be due to compounds in garlic that interfere with cholesterol production in the liver, particularly reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol.