Blood pressure is a term used to describe the amount of force pushing against artery walls as the heart pumps blood. This pressure is continually changing depending on your diet, emotional state and activity level. Blood pressure may be reduced through physical activity, healthy eating and prescription medications; however, proponents of vinegar claim supplementing with this liquid may help reduce blood pressure. While preliminary scientific data are promising, discuss the safety and recommended dosage of vinegar with your doctor.
Vinegar
Vinegar may be made out of any fruit, vegetable or grain with sugar content, and it is made through two biological processes. The first process involves combining yeast with a sugar-containing compound, which results in a chemical reaction converting sugar into alcohol. The second process is known as the acetobacter process and it is when bacteria convert alcohol into acetic acid. While the exact compounds of vinegar may vary according to its type -- for example apple cider vinegar contains different constituents than malt vinegar -- most forms of vinegar contain vitamin B-1, mineral salts, riboflavin and acetic acid. The latter compound is the primary active ingredient believed to provide any medicinal benefit.
Scientific Evidence
The December 2001 issue of the "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" journal outlines a study performed by researchers at the Mitsukan Group Corporation Central Research Institute where acetic acid found in vinegar was given to hypertensive rats. Upon the conclusion of the study, researchers found acetic acid significantly reduced blood pressure when compared to rats who were not given vinegar or acetic acid. While research must be performed on humans to determine the true value of vinegar on high blood pressure, these findings do show promise.
Dosage Recommendations
Although there is no official dosage of vinegar for the treatment of high blood pressure, David L. Katz, M.D., writes in the January 2007 issue of "O, The Oprah Magazine" 1 to 3 tbsp. of vinegar per day is generally considered safe. Because of the high acidic content found in vinegar, discuss the dosage and safety of this compound with your physician.
Safety Considerations
Vinegar can cause adverse side effects such as esophagus irritation and the production of excess stomach acid. Because of this, take extreme caution when supplementing with vinegar and always dilute the vinegar in 8 oz. of water to help prevent throat burn or stomach irritation. Do not use vinegar for a prolonged period of time, as acetic acid can leach calcium from your bones and degrade tooth enamel.
References
- MedlinePlus; Blood Pressure; David C. Dugdale, et al.;May 2010
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute; What is High Blood Pressure?; April 2011
- The Vinegar Institute: Frequently Asked Questions
- "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" Journal; Antihypertensive Effects of Acetic Acid and Vinegar on Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats; S. Kondo, et al.; December 2001
- "O, The Oprah Magazine"; Is Vinegar An Appetite Suppressant?; David L. Katz, M.D.; January 2007
