"How Daily Vinegar Supplementation Could Help Prevent Pulmonary Bleeding in Horses by Lowering Blood Pressure"

Vinegar, with its main component acetic acid, may help horses reduce pulmonary bleeding (Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage or EIPH) by affecting the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which plays a key role in regulating blood pressure. Here's how this mechanism might work:

1 Opposition to the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS): The RAS is responsible for narrowing blood vessels and increasing blood pressure. When activated, it can raise pressure within the lungs' blood vessels. Acetic acid in vinegar has been shown to suppress this system, leading to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), and reducing overall blood pressure, including in the pulmonary arteries. Lower pulmonary pressure may decrease the stress on capillaries in the lungs, reducing the likelihood of bleeding.

2 Blood Pressure Reduction: By lowering systemic blood pressure through the opposition of the RAS, vinegar may also reduce the risk of capillary rupture in the lungs during intense exercise. Lower pressure means less force acting on the delicate blood vessels in the lungs, potentially mitigating EIPH episodes.

3 Reduced Pulmonary Hypertension: Horses experiencing EIPH often suffer from pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs), which stresses blood vessels during intense physical activity. Acetic acid's ability to lower blood pressure could prevent this dangerous rise, contributing to fewer or less severe instances of bleeding.

4 Improved Vascular Health: Vinegar's impact on blood pressure and vascular health could help maintain the integrity of the lung’s blood vessels. Reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are both linked to high blood pressure, may further protect the lung tissues from damage during exercise.

This potential benefit makes vinegar an interesting supplement for horses prone to EIPH, as it tackles one of the root causes—elevated pulmonary pressure.