Nearly one in three adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Blood pressure is defined as the force pushed against artery walls as the heart pumps blood. High blood pressure is defined as having a systolic number greater than 140 and a diastolic number greater than 90 -- both of which are measured in millimeters of mercury, or mmHg. Hypertension increases your risk of heart failure, coronary heart disease, kidney failure and stroke. While this condition should always be treated by a physician, proponents of natural remedies claim cider vinegar may be an effective blood pressure treatment along with a treatment plan from your doctor.
Cider Vinegar Compounds
Cider vinegar, or apple cider vinegar, contains a high concentration of malic acid, potassium, pectin, calcium, iron and acetic acid. The most active of these compounds is acetic acid, which is believed by scientists to provide its medicinal qualities. The concentration of these compounds is determined by whether the vinegar is pasteurized. Pasteurization is a common practice used to kill potentially harmful bacteria by heating the vinegar to high temperatures. Proponents of cider vinegar claim the pasteurization process dilutes or eliminates vital constituents, thus reducing its health benefits. The primary medicinal compound, acetic acid, is not destroyed during pasteurization, however.
Effects on Blood Pressure
A study published in the December 2001 issue of the "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" journal found rats given acetic acid experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure. While this study is promising, human trials have not been performed. Another study published in the May 2006 issue of the "British Journal of Nutrition" found that acetic acid reduced total cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in rats. This may be promising as high cholesterol levels are often combined with high blood pressure; however more studies are needed to confirm this result.
Recommended Dosage
There is no standard dosage of cider vinegar recommended by the scientific community; however, David L. Katz, M.D. says in "O, The Oprah Magazine," that drinking 1 to 3 tbsp. of vinegar per day is generally considered safe for healthy adults. Due to the strong taste and acidity of cider vinegar, dilute 1 to 3 tbsp. in 8 oz. of cold water. Sweeten for taste by adding 1 tbsp. of agave nectar or honey.
Warnings
Due to the high acidic content of cider vinegar, discuss the use of this supplement with your doctor. If you have mouth or stomach ulcers do not take cider vinegar. Side effects may include indigestion, heartburn, upset stomach and throat irritation. If you're taking any medications, discuss the use and safety of cider vinegar with your physician or pharmacist.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute; What Is High Blood Pressure?; April 2011
- Global Healing Center: The Benefits of Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
- "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" Journal; Antihypertensive Effects of Acetic Acid and Vinegar on Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats; S. Kondo, et al.; December 2001
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; Dietary Acetic Acid Reduces Serum Cholesterol and triacylglycerols in Rats Fed a Cholesterol-Rich Diet; T. Fushimi, et al.; May 2006
- "O, The Oprah Magazine"; Is Vinegar An Appetite Suppressant; David L. Katz, M.D.; January 2007
- eMedTV; Apple Cider Vinegar Safety; Kristi Monson, PharmD, Arthur Schoenstadt, M.D.; November 2007
