Apple Cider Vinegar: Remedy for Weight Loss or Not?

Apple cider vinegar is a byproduct of fermented apples. Bacteria and yeast are used to metabolize the sugars in the apples. The sugar turns to alcohol in the preliminary stage of the process and then the alcohol is fermented longer to become vinegar. The term “vinegar” was taken from the French vocabulary, meaning “sour wine”. Scientific Evidence Over the centuries, apple cider vinegar has been used for individuals who want to lose weight. The question is: Is it really an effective weight loss treatment? Some studies have shown evidence that vinegar consumptions helps curb appetite and burns fat. It also helped lowered cholesterol and blood pressure in a group of rats. However how it works in humans has not been studied well. One study examined the effect of taking white vinegar before a meal on blood sugar levels and satiety of a group of 12 people. Those who consumed the vinegar felt fuller and more satisfied after the meal than those who did not consume the vinegar. Also, results showed that those who took vinegar with the meal had better blood sugar levels and insulin profiles relative to the individuals who did not take vinegar before their meal. How apple cider vinegar can be taken There are no current guidelines to how much apple cider vinegar to consume. Some individuals take one tablespoon in the morning, either plain or mixed in a cup of water or juice. Other individuals may take it as a supplement, in tablet form. Supplements are taken prior to or following meals. Any side effects? Not in small doses. However using apple cider vinegar in larger amounts or over a long period of time may pose risks. ·   In the long term, drinking undiluted apple cider vinegar can erode dental enamel, damaging the teeth and the tissues in your throat and mouth ·   One study found a woman who got an apple cider vinegar supplement stuck in her throat, resulted in permanent damage to her esophagus ·   Long-term use of apple cider vinegar may lead to low potassium or osteoporosis. So if you have either, talk to your doctor before using apple cider vinegar. ·   Vinegar contains chromium, which can affect your insulin levels. If you have diabetes, check with your physician or endocrinologist before using apple cider vinegar.  ·   Using apple cider vinegar supplements, instead of the liquid itself, adds another layer of risk. Unlike medicines, supplements are not regulated and tested for effectiveness or even safety concerns. A 2005 study looked at the ingredients of eight different brands of apple cider vinegar supplements. These are the results: ·   Some of the ingredients listed on the box were not the actual ingredients used ·   The concentration of ingredients was very different between brands ·   The recommended dosages varied largely between brands   Therefore, it is better to take it in the liquid form than as a tablet.   Drug interactions It may interact with certain laxatives, diuretics, and medicines for heart conditions and diabetes. Check with your doctor before taking apple cider vinegar supplements or apple cider vinegar regularly.   The bottom line Although research looks promising on apple cider vinegar’s ability to curb appetite and burn fat, results are currently insufficient. Most studies were done on animals or cells in a lab. More research needs to be conducted to verify its true potential benefits.