As of date of publication, research does not yet support the idea that apple cider vinegar can lower blood pressure. However, effective home remedies for lowering blood pressure are as easy and inexpensive as drinking apple cider vinegar. Vinegar is a popular folk remedy with a long history of medicinal use. If you believe that there is merit to this claim and want to try it, consult with your doctor; small quantities of apple cider vinegar are not harmful to most people.
Vinegar Folklore
While studies to date have been suggestive, plenty of medical research remains necessary before vinegar can be accepted as part of a treatment plan for high blood pressure. The use of vinegar for medicinal purposes dates back at least to the 4th century BC. Hippocrates, known as the founder of modern medicine, employed it externally to treat wounds and experimented with its use as a tonic. A combination of honey and vinegar called Oxymel was a popular ancient cough remedy; use of these ingredients in combination to treat coughs remains common today. Ancient Egyptians used apple cider vinegar to aid weight loss, but, like most medicinal applications of vinegar, there is no evidence that supports its effectiveness in this capacity.
About Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is made by letting pulped apples, yeast and sugars ferment. It is a tangy, flavorful addition to recipes calling for an acidic ingredient and makes a good salad dressing. Vinegar has antimicrobial properties, making it somewhat effective as a cleanser in food preparation, and a good chemical-free option to clean dentures. Long-term risks associated with apple cider vinegar use include low blood potassium levels, diminished bone mineral density and a burning feeling in the throat from repeated ingestion.
About High Blood Pressure
The pressure of your blood on the walls of your arteries is your blood pressure. Arteries, blood vessels that transport blood from your heart to the rest of your body, are normally flexible, allowing blood to flow through them easily. High blood pressure, or hypertension, strains your arteries by putting excessive pressure on them. High blood pressure is a systolic pressure of 140 or above or a diastolic pressure of 90 or above. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is life-threatening.
Reccomendations for Lowering Blood Pressure
The best way to manage your blood pressure is to modify your lifestyle. Lose weight; extra weight around your waist puts you at risk for high blood pressure. Eat a healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains and low in saturated fat. Exercise daily for at least 30 to 60 minutes. Never drink more than four alcoholic beverages in a row; regularly drink no more than one alcoholic beverage per day for women, two per day for men. Drink no more than two cups of caffeinated beverages per day. Reduce stress; high levels of stress can raise your blood pressure. And if you still want to try apple cider vinegar, add it to your salad for a flavorful, no-fat dressing.
References
- "Medscape General Medicine"; Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect; Carol S. Johnston, Ph.D., R.D., Cindy A. Gaas, B.S.; May 2006
- AARP: Apple Cider Vinegar
- MayoClinic.com; 10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication; March 2011
- FamilyDoctor.org; High Blood Pressure: Things You Can Do to Help Lower Yours; January 1996
Member Comments