Apple Cider Vinegar Tablets For Weight Loss

Acetic acid is the primary component found in a vinegar based diet. Apple cider vinegar in liquid and pill or tablet form contains the same fat-fighting compound, acetic acid, but may lose certain enzymes, minerals and proteins during the powdering process. No studies are currently available for public view regarding apple cider vinegar pills. However, most weight loss studies that include vinegar make no distinction between which vinegar was used as the acetic acid in all types of vinegar is considered to be the primary catalyst.

History

Hippocrates, considered to be the father of modern medicine, used apple cider vinegar to treat coughs and colds in 400 BC. Roman soldiers and Japanese samurai used vinegar as an energy drink but also used it for treating wounds and fighting infection. Early Middle Eastern writings state that vinegar was used to treat coughs, to stop or slow bleeding and as a digestive aid. The U.S. military used vinegar as an antiseptic during the American civil war up until World War I. In the past few decades, apple cider vinegar has gained popularity and doctors D.C. Jarvis and Earl Mindell have published books touting vinegar's many medicinal properties including its uses for weight loss.

Dosage

Studies conducted by Arizona State University, Isfahan University, Lund University and the Mizkan Group have shown that 2 tbsp., or 30ml, of liquid vinegar daily, and in some cases before each meal, holds the most promise for weight loss. The 2 tbsp. dose seems to affect weight, visceral fat, glucose, cholesterol, metabolism, satiation and energy. Dosage for apple cider tablets varies by brand but generally 2 tablets will equal 2 tbsp.. Consult a physician before beginning an apple cider vinegar diet regimen.

Acetic Acid

A 2005 study by the Mizkan Group showed that the PPAR-alpha organelle, the part of a cell that is responsible for oxidizing fatty acids and accelerating caloric burning, was notably more active within 20 minutes of ingesting vinegar. Researchers theorize that the acetic acid in vinegar works at a genetic level to increase the metabolic rate of humans. A follow-up study in 2009 conducted on 175 people showed that the test group receiving 2 tbsp. vinegar with each meal showed significant results in slimmer waistlines, lower body mass index, decreased body fat and lower visceral fat levels after 12 weeks.

Side Effects

Soft tissue damage in the esophagus, upset stomach and possibly kidney damage are known side effects of apple cider vinegar tablets. Hyperreninemia, a condition related to overactive kidneys and high blood pressure, along with osteoporosis and low potassium levels are also known side effects of ingesting too much apple cider vinegar, whether it be liquid or tablets. Without the bitter taste and pungent aroma, apple cider vinegar tablets are conducive to overdose.

Considerations

According to Dr. L. Hill and colleagues of the University of Arkansas, "The inconsistency and inaccuracy in labeling, recommended dosages, and unsubstantiated health claims make it easy to question the quality of the products." Dr. Hill et al. began their study to find the correlation between the side effects of liquid vinegar and pill form. They also reported that there were significant variations in the pill's inactive ingredients, pH levels, bacterial growth and acetic acid content among the eight brands that they tested.