How to Follow the Apple Cider Vinegar Diet

Apple cider is produced by fermentation of pulverized apples. The apple cider vinegar diet, introduced in the 1950s, claims to improve health and promote weight loss by reducing the appetite. Although limited human studies have been conducted on this diet, some evidence supports that the apple cider vinegar diet may help improve health, reduce high cholesterol and help with weight loss. Moreover, a study published in the November 2007 issue of Diabetes Care showed improvement in blood glucose levels in patients taking 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar each night. Knowing how to follow the apple cider vinegar diet helps improve the diet's effectiveness and safety.

Step 1

Speak with your doctor before beginning the apple cider vinegar (ACV) diet if you have low potassium or osteoporosis. Long-term use of ACV may further lower potassium and decrease bone density.

Step 2

Dilute 1 tsp. to 3 tsp ACV in four or more ounces of water. Drink the solution before meals to reduce your appetite and prevent overeating. Alternatively, you can mix the vinegar in a mild fruit juice if you dislike the taste of drinking it mixed with water.

Step 3

Take an apple cider vinegar supplement once each day, or as per manufacturer directions. Supplements should be used in lieu of drinking the ACV solution before meals. ACV supplements are available in most health food stores, pharmacies and grocery stores.

Step 4

Never ingest ACV without first diluting it. The vinegar is very acidic and harsh, and drinking it undiluted can cause serious damage to your tooth enamel and mouth and throat tissues.

Step 5

Avoid using the ACV diet if you're currently taking laxatives, diuretics or medications for heart disease or diabetes due to potential interactions.

Step 6

Eat a healthy, balanced diet while taking ACV for weight loss. The apple cider vinegar diet is intended to help reduce cravings for food and decrease the appetite to prevent overeating. It is not a substitute for good nutrition and will not promote weight loss in the absence of other dietary modifications.

Things You'll Need

  • Apple cider vinegar supplement

References

Article reviewed by Anton Alden Last updated on: Nov 11, 2009

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