Effects of garlic tablet on blood sugar, plasma lipids and blood pressure in type 2 diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia

Background: Diabetes, hypercholesterolemia and hypertension are three major risk factors that lead to the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease. Historically, there has been great interest in the role of garlic in reducing cardiovascular risk factors. In this study we evaluated effects of garlic tablet in type 2 diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia. Materials and method: A clinical trial (before and after) was performed in a group of 50 type 2 diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia (39 women, 11 men, cholesterol concentration greater than or equal to 220 mg/dl) to assess the effect of garlic powder tablet on blood glucose, lipid profiles and blood pressure. Each patient received tablets which contain 300 mg of garlic powder (Garcin) 3 times per day for 6 weeks. In the beginning of study and after 6 weeks supplementation of garlic powder tablets, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin and lipid profiles were measured. 24 hr dietary recalls were used to evaluate nutritional status of patients. Data were collected by using Spss soft ware and analyzed by paired t test. Nutritional data was analyzed by Nutritionist Ш (N Ш ) software. Results: Our results indicate 6 weeks supplementation with garlic powder tablets were significantly decreased total cholesterol (p < 0.01) and LDL-C (p < 0.001). HDL-C was significantly increased (p < 0.02) and systolic blood pressure was significantly decreased (p < 0.03). There were no significant changes in diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, serum triglycerides and HbAıc. Also there were no significant changes in diet composition. Conclusion: We concluded that 900 mg/day garlic powder tablets for 6 weeks will significantly decreased total cholesterol, LDL-C, systolic blood pressure and increase HDL-C in type II diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia. We propose that other studies also should be performed on this product to assess quality, efficacy and safety of this product before it is recommended to patients