Aged Garlic Extract Improves Vascular Function in Asymptomatic Individuals with Subclinical Atherosclerosis

Abstract

This study evaluates changes associated with Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) use in vascular reactivity during cuff‐occlusive reactive hyperemia by Digital Thermal monitoring (DTM) and progression of coronary artery calcium scores (CACS).Methods: A placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, randomized trial, 65 (mean age: 60±9 years, 78% males) intermediate risk patients were enrolled and 60 completed the study protocol in which they either received four capsules of AGE (250 mg), Vitamin B12 (100mcg), Folic Acid (300 mcg), Vitamin B6 (12.5mg) and L‐Arginine (100mg) or placebo daily 1 year. Changes in vascular endothelial function, TMP AUC (Post‐cuff deflation Area Under the temperature Curve), index of thermal vascular reactivity, and CAC were assessed over 1 year follow up in both groups.Results: At baseline there was no difference between both groups in their CAC scores (AGE: 291±50 vs. Placebo: 347±67, p=0.3) as well in TMP AUC (AGE: 291±50 vs. Placebo: 95±11, p=0.7). As shown in figure, Over 1 year follow‐up there was significantly higher improvement in TMP AUC and less progression of CACS with AGE compared to placebo independent of age, gender and risk factors. (TMP AUC: 2.9, 95%CI 1.5–4.7, p0.02) and (CAC: 0.71, 95% CI 0.53=0.9, p0.02).Conclusion: This study suggests that AGE can improve thermal vascular function and reduce CAC progression in asymptomatic adults with intermediate risk.