Does vinegar reduce plaque in arteries?

Can Vinegar Help Reduce Artery Plaque?

It's a question many heart-conscious individuals are asking: Can something as simple as vinegar actually help keep arteries clear? While it’s not a miracle cure, emerging insights suggest that apple cider vinegar (ACV), in particular, may play a modest supporting role in cardiovascular health—thanks largely to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The key lies in ACV’s rich content of polyphenols, natural compounds known for combating oxidative stress in the body. When free radicals accumulate, they can damage the endothelium—the delicate lining of your blood vessels—leading to inflammation and the gradual buildup of arterial plaque. By helping neutralize these free radicals, polyphenols in vinegar may slow this damaging process.

Some laboratory studies have found that vinegar extracts can reduce markers of inflammation in blood vessels, suggesting a potential protective effect. However, it's important to note that most of this evidence comes from test-tube or animal studies, not large-scale human trials. So while the mechanisms are biologically plausible, vinegar alone won’t “clear” clogged arteries or replace proven treatments like statins, diet, and exercise. Still, incorporating a small amount of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar into a balanced diet—such as in salad dressings or diluted in water—may contribute to overall heart health when combined with other lifestyle measures. Just don’t expect dramatic results from vinegar alone. The bottom line? Vinegar isn’t a direct plaque-busting solution, but its antioxidant effects could be a helpful piece of the heart-healthy puzzle. As always, talk to your doctor before making dietary changes, especially if you have existing heart conditions.