Which supplement is often marketed for cholesterol and cardiovascular health?

• A. Garlic
• B. Black cohosh
• C. Melatonin
• D. St. John's Wort

Answer: (A)

Garlic supplements are commonly marketed for cholesterol and cardiovascular health because of both traditional use and trial findings suggesting lipid and blood‑pressure effects. Clinical studies show small reductions in LDL and total cholesterol, and occasional modest drops in systolic blood pressure, but the results are inconsistent and the overall effect is modest. The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, are thought to influence cholesterol metabolism and vascular function, but the benefits are not large enough to replace proven therapies. Safety considerations include possible interactions with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, which can raise bleeding risk, along with GI upset or garlic odor. The other options are associated with different uses—black cohosh for menopause symptoms, melatonin for sleep regulation, and St. John’s Wort for mood disorders—so they’re not marketed for cholesterol or cardiovascular health.