Effects of Exercise Therapy Combined with Garlic and Ginger Supplementation on Cardiovascular and Reproductive Outcomes in Women Undergoing Cardiac Rehabilitation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66021/pakmcr1211Keywords:
Cardiac Rehabilitation, Exercise Therapy, Garlic, Ginger, Cardiovascular Health, Reproductive Health, Women.Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major health problem in women, and multimodal interventions incorporating exercise therapy and dietary supplementation could have a beneficial effect on both cardiovascular and reproductive health.
Objective: To evaluate the effects of exercise therapy combined with garlic and ginger supplementation on cardiac rehabilitation outcomes and women’s cardiovascular and reproductive health parameters.
Methodology: The study was a prospective, parallel group, non-randomized controlled interventional study carried out from January to December 2025 in NIGAB, NARC Islamabad and under the supervision of PIMS Islamabad. A total of 220 women were initially recruited, and 204 participants (102 in each group) completed the study and were included in the final analysis. Structured cardiac rehabilitation exercise plus standardized garlic extract (1000–2000 mg/day) and ginger (1000–2000 mg/day) supplementation was provided to the intervention group, while the control group was given exercise therapy alone. Assessment was done at baseline, 12 weeks, 24 weeks, and 12 months.
Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in cardiovascular and reproductive outcomes compared to controls. Functional capacity improved with higher 6MWT performance and increased NYHA class I–II prevalence (81.37% vs 56.86%, p<0.001). Blood pressure and lipid profile improved significantly, with reduced SBP, DBP, LDL, and triglycerides, along with increased HDL (all p<0.001). Inflammatory marker CRP decreased significantly in the intervention group (p<0.001). Reproductive outcomes improved, with higher rates of regular menstrual cycles (76.47% vs 57.84%), hormonal stability (78.43% vs 58.82%), PMS symptom reduction (72.55% vs 52.94%), and improved well-being (80.39% vs 59.80%).
Conclusion: Combined exercise therapy with garlic and ginger supplementation improves cardiovascular rehabilitation outcomes and reproductive health parameters in women.
