Apple cider vinegar- ACV- has been a rage for many years. The magic ingredient and its therapeutic use date back to the 10th century. Hippocrates- the father of modern medicine- first used ACV for treating wounds.
It has become a popular remedy for several health issues, such as bad cholesterol, and obesity. Besides, it plays a significant role in lowering high blood pressure. Combined with other treatments and a healthy lifestyle, ACV can be good for your heart health.
What Is Hypertension?
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. It has two readings:
- Systolic pressure: the pressure in your arteries when your heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure: the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats.
Hypertension is a medical condition in which the pressure in your arteries is above normal, i.e., 120/80 mm Hg. It puts you at a risk of stroke and heart attack, which are the leading cause of death. Hypertension is called a “silent killer” because it is not always apparent.
According to the Centers for disease control and prevention, about half of American adults have hypertension. And only 24% of adults have their condition under control.
Hypertension can be treated with medication, changes in lifestyle, and alternative treatments. Apple cider vinegar also helps lower blood pressure combined with other healthy choices.
How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Lower Blood Pressure?
Apple cider vinegar is the fermented sugar from the apples. It contains acetic acid (anti-microbial), vitamin B (antioxidants), and polyphenols. The mother version also contains enzymes, probiotics (healthy bacteria), and amino acids. Most of the apple cider vinegar benefits come from its nutritional profile.
There are claims that ACV lowers blood pressure, but the research is limited. Apple cider vinegar may not directly impact blood pressure. But its other health benefits indirectly lower high blood pressure.
ACV reduces weight, removes bad cholesterol, and maintains glucose levels. All these benefits lead to a profound effect on the cardiovascular strain.
Lowers Renin Levels:
Renin is an enzyme released by your kidney that controls your blood pressure. According to a study on rats, apple cider vinegar lowers renin activity and so decreases blood pressure. Another study shows that ACV helps with calcium absorption, strengthening your cardiovascular health.
Promotes Weight Loss:
Obesity and high blood pressure have a strong connection. An increase in body weight leads to increased blood pressure.
ACV helps you manage your blood pressure by keeping your weight under control.
Make healthy changes in your diet, and avoid high-fat and high-salt content. Include apple cider vinegar and potassium-rich food, such as spinach. Go on walks, exercise daily, and make healthier choices.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels:
High cholesterol level increases the adverse effect of high blood pressure. Apple cider vinegar is rich in antioxidants, which lower cholesterol levels.
So you can get rid of both high cholesterol and high blood pressure with ACV. Due to this reason, apple cider vinegar is perfect for heart health.
Lowers Blood Glucose Level:
Apple cider vinegar keeps the blood glucose level low. This lower blood glucose level also reduces blood pressure. In a study, people with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia used a tablespoon of ACV daily for eight weeks. They showed a significant decrease in blood sugar levels and oxidative stress markers.
Apple cider vinegar manages your blood pressure w with medication and a healthy diet. It is not a replacement for any targeted medicine or therapy.
How To Take Apple Cider Vinegar in Your Diet?
Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to hot or cold water. Add in a small amount of honey for taste. Use this natural apple cider vinegar blood pressure drink to have your daily dose of ACV.
If you do not like the taste of vinegar, you can use it in many ways:
- Use as a salad dressing
- Marinate meat and vegetables with vinegar
- Add ACV in smoothies and health drinks
Other Ways to Control Blood Pressure:
Apple cider vinegar only works best when combined with other healthy choices. Improve your diet, eat heart-friendly food, exercise, and go on walks.
1. Exercise:
As per experts, exercise has a significant effect on blood pressure. Exercise- particularly jogging- lowers blood pressure in no time. Make a habit of exercising daily to control high blood pressure effectively.
2. Healthy diet:
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure in humans. Food with high salt and fat content tends to raise blood pressure. Make changes in your diet to improve your heart and overall health.
Opt for the DASH diet that shows a profound effect on blood pressure. Eat food rich in fibers, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and protein. Limit your salt intake, and have more fruits, grains, and vegetables.
3. Reduce stress:
Stress works as the catalyst for high blood pressure. Continuous stress leads to continued high blood pressure. It also causes other harmful behaviors, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and unhealthy eating. The cumulative effect of all these on blood pressure is worse.
Try meditation and relaxation therapy for stress management. Exercise daily, eat a healthy diet and spend time in nature.
Takeaway!
Apple cider vinegar- the cure all- is a traditional remedy. It promotes weight loss, lowers blood pressure, and improves digestion.
But, ACV alone is not enough. It cannot work wonders unless it has its fellows- a healthy diet, exercise, walk, meditation- to help it. Thus, it is necessary to make healthy choices overall and not just rely on ACV for your health.
