Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease identified by the this accumulation of substances such as cholesterol, calcium and fatty materials along your artery walls. Over time, this accumulation causes your arteries to become narrowed, which results in hard and inflexible arteries. While treating atherosclerosis should always be overseen by your doctor, you may use natural remedies to help naturally reduce and prevent plaque accumulation.
According to initial studies, vinegar has shown promise in regards to removing and preventing plaque development along artery walls; however, further research is required to determine the true value of vinegar for hard arteries.
Vinegar and Atherosclerosis – Scientific Evidence:
According to a study published by “Lipids in Health and Disease” vinegar directly affects the biochemical processes that lead to plaque accumulation. The study, which used rabbits as its subject, found that vinegar supplementation significantly reduced LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol. It is important to note that LDL cholesterol plays a direct role in plaque accumulation, thus by lowering this type of cholesterol the likelihood of developing plaque along artery walls is reduced.
Another study published by the “Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry” journal found that vinegar reduced blood pressure among hypertensive rats. This result may indirectly cause a reduction in atherosclerosis as high blood pressure is known to play a role in plaque accumulation. Researchers believe the compound acetic acid is responsible for this result.
Dosage:
Because further scientific studies in humans is required to determine the full value of vinegar for hardened arteries there is no official dosage recommendation. This being said, David L. Katz, M.D. reports consuming one to three tablespoons of vinegar is generally safe for adults.
Side Effects:
As with any natural supplement, vinegar does carry a risk of side effects. Because vinegar contains a high acidic concentration, those with stomach ulcers may find that supplementing with vinegar aggravates the ulcer. Other common side effects include heartburn and throat irritation. You may reduce the likelihood of developing these side effects by diluting vinegar in a 50/50 water mixture. Of course, do not begin taking vinegar supplements, in either liquid or tablet form, if you are taking medications as vinegar can cause adverse prescription reactions. Again, talk with your doctor before starting a vinegar supplementation routine.
References Used:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/atherosclerosis-000016.htm
University of Maryland Medical Center: Atherosclerosis
http://www.lipidworld.com/content/9/1/10
Lipids in Health and Disease: Acute Effects of Vinegar Intake on Some Biochemical Risk Factors of Atherosclerosis in Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11826965
Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry Journal: Antihypertensive Effects of Acetic Acid and Vinegar…
http://www.oprah.com/health/Is-Vinegar-An-Appetite-Suppressant
O, The Oprah Magazine: Is Vinegar an Appetite Suppressant?