For decades, fish oil has been the go-to for those looking to improve their cardiovascular health. But, according to a growing number of studies, Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) might be even better!
Traditional fish oil supplements come from several sources including salmon, sardines, and anchovies. The resulting oil from these sources contain two important omega-3s: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Research shows that these two types of omega-3s are potent anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce triglycerides, improves cholesterol, lowers oxidative stress, and discourages platelets from sticking together inside arteries. There is also evidence that the DHA in fish oil modestly lowers blood pressure
While those are important heart-health benefits, AGE does all of that and more. A rich source of manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and selenium, AGE is different from the pungent garlic cloves used for cooking. During a natural aging process that can take up to 20 months, the harsh unstable organosulfur properties in garlic are converted into stable bioavailable compounds with numerous health properties. In addition to being a powerful anti-inflammatory, studies have shown that AGE is high in antioxidants, including carboxylic acid and L-arginine, which play an important role in cardiovascular health.
Clinical Findings
Studies show that these beneficial properties translate to real cardiovascular benefits above and beyond those provided by fish oil. Findings in the journal Integrated Blood Pressure Control show that AGE effectively lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with uncontrolled hypertension. After 12 weeks, researchers from the University of Adelaide and the National Institute of Integrative Medicine in Melbourne, Australia, found that 1.2g of AGE daily resulted in a 11.5 mmHg drop in their systolic blood pressure and a 6.3 mmHg reduction in their diastolic pressure. Arterial stiffness improved as well. Those taking the AGE also experienced modest improvements in an inflammatory marker known as CRP and cholesterol levels.
Other double-blind clinical trials conducted at the Harbor-University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center found that, not only did AGE lower blood pressure, it also reduced coronary artery calcification after a year of supplementation. In fact, AGE inhibited the progression of coronary artery calcification an average 1.78 fold compared to the placebo over the course of the study. AGE has also been shown to lower both triglycerides and bad LDL cholesterol while increasing good HDL cholesterol. What’s more, AGE lowers levels of homocysteine, an amino acid related to a high risk for heart disease. Together, these health improvements may prevent cardiac events like a stroke or heart attack.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the heart-healthy benefits provided by AGE and fish oil:
AGED GARLIC EXTRACT VS FISH OIL
As the above chart shows, AGE’s broad-based benefits not only meet those provided by fish oil, it also targets additional important cardiovascular risks. Paired with a heart-smart diet and regular exercise, AGE is a comprehensive way to support a healthy cardiovascular system every day.
And remember, you can get the best of both worlds with Kyolic Omega-3! This formula contains 480mg of Aged Garlic Extract, Vitamin E, and odorless Omega-3 Fish oil with EPA and DHA, to support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response. It’s truly a win-win for cardiovascular health!
This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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