Apple Cider Vinegar And The Effects On High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a serious health condition. Blood pressure is exactly what it sounds like: the pressure that forces the blood through the arteries. High blood pressure can stretch and weaken the arteries, so that even though you may present with no symptoms, it can put you at a higher risk of developing heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Some think apple cider vinegar has an effect on high blood pressure, but it is not a suitable treatment.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is made through the process of fermenting the liquid extracted from crushed apples. this is done by adding yeast and sugar to the liquid. Over time, this develops alcohol and eventually acetic acid, according to an article published in "Nutrition Forum," in 1997. Limited studies have shown apple cider vinegar to have a effect on high blood pressure. However, you should never use it in place of standard blood pressure treatments and medications.

Blood Thinner

Apple cider vinegar may work as a blood thinner, which can help reduce blood pressure, according to a study published in "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" in 2001. In the study on rats, a reduction in high blood pressure occurred after they were fed vinegar. The researchers, from the Central Research Institute in Japan, discovered that the acetic acid in vinegar was likely the cause of this effect.

Pectin and Cholesterol

Another ingredient found in apple cider vinegar is pectin. Made up of apple enzymes, pectin is thought to help to lower cholesterol, which may play a role in reducing blood pressure. However, according to a study published in the "Journal of Nutrition," in 1989, researchers saw no correlation between pectin, a reduction in cholesterol, or a subsequent reduction in blood pressure.

Quercetin and Blood Pressure

Another apple cider vinegar ingredient is quercetin, an antioxidant, and it may help to reduce blood pressure. According to a study published in the "Journal of Nutrition," in 2007, participants that consumed quercetin for four weeks saw a reduction in blood pressure. However, the participants had very mild cases of elevated blood pressure.

Apple Cider Vinegar and the Effects on High Blood Pressure