Can Vinegar Really Help You Lose Weight?

The question of whether vinegar is an effective supplement for weight loss is as complex as the issue of weight loss itself. As of 2010, scientists, nutritionists, naturopaths and other health advocates have not yet settled the issue, and studies have indicated both positive and negative results for this folk remedy. However, it seems clear that vinegar is most effective when used as part of a systematic change in diet and lifestyle.

Factors

Weight loss is dependent on your unique social, biological and psychological circumstances. Crash diets, pills and other forms of supposedly instant weight loss are often harmful to the body. To be at the ideal weight is to be healthy. As with most natural remedies, weight loss using vinegar is a gradual process, one that requires consistent use. Vinegar seems to influence certain aspects of weight loss, including appetite suppression and fat reduction, and can also supply some nutrients.

Appetite Suppression

A 2005 article published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" found that vinegar reduces the body's glycemic response by half, which promotes a feeling of fullness and eliminates the urge to eat excessively. Dr. David Katz, an associate professor at Yale University School of Medicine and a noted authority on weight loss, suggests that the strong astringent flavor of vinegar simulates greater caloric intake, which may prolong the feeling of fullness.

Reducing Fat

A study published in a 2005 issue of "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Agrochemistry" examined a group of 175 obese Japanese volunteers, all with the same body type. They ingested either zero, 15 or 30 ml of vinegar each day for 12 weeks. The volunteers significantly reduced their weight, body mass index, visceral fat, waist circumference and serum triglyceride levels as compared to the placebo group receiving zero ml of vinegar, suggesting that vinegar might help reduce obesity.

Vitamin and Nutrient Supplementation

According to the World Health Organization, obesity is caused by an increase of high-calorie and fatty food intake, with a decrease in vitamins and minerals. While pasteurized and processed vinegars have little nutritional value, raw organic apple cider vinegar contains essential vitamins such as vitamin A, C, B-1 and B-6. It also contains the minerals magnesium, potassium and calcium. Vinegar's nutritional supplementation, along with its action as an appetite suppressor, suggests that it might be a viable option for weight loss.

Warning

The main ingredient in vinegar is acetic acid, which may be harmful to the teeth, the esophagus and stomach if used incorrectly. Apple cider vinegar products such as the highly concentrated powder capsules are no exception. Speak with your doctor prior to trying vinegar for weight loss.