One of the most popular health-related topics in magazines and health shows is cholesterol. Cholesterol is a naturally occurring substance, and it is responsible for controlling the production of vitamin D and other hormones. While cholesterol is an essential substance, if you have excessive cholesterol levels you can experience adverse side effects such as atherosclerosis and heart disease.
If you are interested in lowering your cholesterol levels, then you should discuss the use of natural remedies with your doctor. Proponents of vinegar claim that the use of vinegar tablets can help reduce overall cholesterol levels. While preliminary research is promising, never begin a vinegar supplementation routine to control your cholesterol levels without first discussing this supplement with your doctor or if you’re using other cholesterol medications as adverse reactions can occur.
Vinegar Medicinal Constituents:
The exact constituents found within vinegar are based on the type of vinegar you’re using. Because vinegar may be made out of any fruit, vegetable or grain with sugar constituents can alter; however, all forms of vinegar contain acetic acid. Modern research has found that acetic acid is the primary medicinal constituent for vinegar. Acetic acid is created during the vinegar fermentation.
Scientific Evidence:
Although scientific studies that have specifically used vinegar tablets are unavailable, studies using liquid vinegar are available. It is important to note that whether or not vinegar is consumed in tablet or liquid form, its primary constituents interact with your body in the same manner.
One of the most promising studies regarding vinegar for cholesterol reduction was published by the “British Journal of Nutrition.” Within this study, scientists found that the consumption of acetic acid reduced total cholesterol in rats. The study also found acetic acid significantly reduce triglyceride levels. While this study was not performed on humans, it does show promise regarding the use of vinegar for cholesterol reduction in humans.
Potential Side Effects:
As with any natural supplement, vinegar may cause adverse side effects. It seems that the bulk of side effects are due to the acetic acid content of vinegar. Physorg.com published a finding where vinegar tablets may contain 10 times the concentration of acetic acid when compared to liquid vinegar. Due to the high concentration of acetic acid you could experience throat burn, stomach irritation as well as heartburn.
References Used:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16611381
British Journal of Nutrition: Dietary Acetic Acid Reduces Serum Cholesterol…
http://www.physorg.com/news65367358.html
Physorg.com: Apple Cider Vinegar? Or Just Acid?