Dear Dr. SerVaas: I have hypertension. Someone told me to drink vinegar. Will drinking vinegar alone lower my high blood pressure, or should I drink vinegar with my blood pressure medication?

Bobby Leach
Talladega, Alabama

Dear Reader: Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for many conditions, including high blood pressure. Advocates believe that apple pectin found in the vinegar adds fiber to the diet and helps keep blood pressure in check. We are unaware of conclusive data on the treatment, however.

Do you have a blood pressure cuff? A daily log could help you and your doctor evaluate the effect of apple cider vinegar on your blood pressure. If the remedy works for you, it may be possible to reduce or eliminate your current doses of blood pressure medicine. We would like to hear from any of our readers who believe that drinking apple cider vinegar helps control their blood pressure readings. Please include how often and how much vinegar is taken.