Health Benefits of Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar

For decades, apple cider vinegar has been used as a home remedy for treating ailments such as lice, jellyfish stings, warts and poor digestion. No evidence has been found to support claims that apple cider vinegar is a cure-all product, but drinking the liquid as a supplement may have some health benefits.

Insulin Sensitivity

A 2004 study published in Diabetes Care and conducted by Carol S. Johnston, Cindy M. Kim and Amanda J. Buller found that consuming apple cider vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity. The subjects used in the study suffered from insulin resistance or had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Vinegar may be an effective way to control glucose levels in diabetic patients. However, diabetes patients should first speak to a doctor before drinking apple cider vinegar for supplementation.

Cholesterol

Some evidence suggests that apple cider vinegar may help lower a person’s cholesterol levels. It is hypothesized that the pectin found in the vinegar is the agent that affects cholesterol, according to the Scientific American. When apple cider vinegar was added to cholesterol blood samples, the cholesterol levels dropped slightly. A doctor may allow apple cider vinegar if you are trying to make dietary changes to control cholesterol levels before medications are prescribed.

Weight Loss

The Apple Cider Vinegar Diet requires that participants drink two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar before meals. Taking the liquid before meals purportedly reduces your appetite and burns more fat. However, there is no concrete evidence that apple cider vinegar is an effective way to lose weight, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you experience any side effects, such as stomach upset or throat irritation, you should stop drinking the vinegar.

References

Article reviewed by Joseph Keefer Last updated on: Nov 21, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments