Do garlic tablets help with cholesterol?

Some studies show that garlic can decrease blood levels of total cholesterol for the short-term, but the evidence is mixed, according to WebMD. Other studies show that garlic may not be as beneficial as once believed, and it can have side effects, such as prolonged blood clotting time.

Early animal studies suggested that garlic supplements might be helpful at lowering bad cholesterol, but a later study, which was published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, did not confirm this, states Healthline. Garlic supplements should not be taken before surgery, since they can prolong bleeding and blood clotting time, indicates WebMD.