Heart Specialist Debunks Myths About Natural Remedies for Heart Health

Commonly held beliefs about natural remedies curing heart conditions are scientifically unfounded, according to Doç. Dr. Çağlar Özmen, a specialist in cardiology at ÇÜ Balcalı Hospital. Many people believe that consuming concoctions like vinegar water, garlic extract, or lemon water can effectively treat blocked arteries, but Dr. Özmen asserts there is no scientific basis for these claims.

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There is no miraculous food and no miraculous mixture.

Dr. Özmen emphasized that while foods such as vinegar, garlic extract, and lemon water can be components of a healthy diet, they should not be considered medicinal treatments. He specifically addressed garlic extract, noting some studies in the U.S. suggest its use as a dietary supplement for blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, he clarified that in Turkey, these are considered supplementary foods, not replacements for doctor-prescribed medications or treatments.

The specialist also cautioned against the overconsumption of honey and molasses, which are popularly believed to regulate blood sugar and open arteries. He pointed out that their high sugar content can be detrimental, particularly for individuals with diabetes or weight issues, potentially leading to increased blood sugar levels and weight gain.

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Vinegar, garlic extract, lemon water can be part of a balanced diet. But none of them will open the heart vessels as is said among the public, none of them will lower high cholesterol, or contribute to regulating sugar and blood pressure.

Furthermore, Dr. Özmen debunked the notion that black cumin seeds can lower cholesterol or clear arterial plaque. He stated that such claims are inaccurate and that the perception of natural foods being inherently beneficial in large quantities is misleading. The most significant danger, he warned, lies in patients with chronic conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol abandoning their prescribed medications in favor of these unproven natural alternatives, which can worsen their health status.

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The biggest problem is that these foods are used instead of medication. With this approach, we can cause the current situation to worsen.