Attributed to mostly our modern and sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol levels have become increasingly common, leading to strokes, heart attacks and other health problems. We are all aware that poor diets comprising of fat laden foods can boost levels of "bad" cholesterol and lack of exercise can further worsen the condition.

Well here's some good news!! Latest research has unearthed a new weapon against bad cholesterol - Black Garlic - can help lower your cholesterol.

In a study conducted on sixty volunteers, who were either given black garlic or a placebo twice a day for 12 weeks, it was found that the group taking black garlic saw a significant increase in high-density lipoproteins ("good" cholesterol) - known to offer benefits to the cardiovascular system.

In another experiment, black garlic was given along with a high fat diet, to determine its impact on cholesterol levels in the blood. The findings largely mirror the previous study; good cholesterol levels increased, while bad cholesterol levels were observed to fall. Total cholesterol levels also fell in those being provided with the garlic extract.

One final piece of evidence, in which scientists tried to assess the potential benefits of black garlic on obese people, they too found that black garlic helped in reducing triglyceride levels and lower total cholesterol, as compared to the control. Although, we need more research to be conducted, the limited number of studies carried out so far, suggest that black garlic may help to support healthy cholesterol levels in the body.

Though not as well known as its white counterpart, black garlic is enjoying a rise in popularity in gastronomic circles and the alternative medicine field. Introduced to the health and food markets in recent times, garlic becomes "black garlic" through a month-long process of fermentation under strictly controlled heat and humidity. According to natural medicine practitioners and herbalists, black garlic is a storehouse of health.

The fermentation process in creating black garlic contributes to creating a kind of super food. The compound S-allylcysteine, a natural component of fresh garlic, was found in much greater concentrations in black garlic and as such helps lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of cancer as well. The fermentation or better known as the maillard reaction removes the pungent taste and odor, makes it sweet and chewy and more palatable to many people.

So, if you've been struggling to find a solution to lower your cholesterol levels, here's the answer- believe in black garlic and say good-bye to bad cholesterol!