Apple cider vinegar is a home remedy used as an appetite suppressant and to increase the rate at which your body burns fat. Although some studies have been conducted on the weight-loss effects of apple cider vinegar, it has not been scientifically proven to be effective. Speak to your doctor if you wish to add an apple cider vinegar and water concoction to your diet to lose weight.
Expert Insight
Weight loss has been seen in mice given apple cider vinegar as part of their diet. According to a 2001 study published in "The Journal of the Egyptian Public Health Association," mice given 0.51 ml per kg of body weight per day experienced significant reductions in body weight. However, the weight loss effects on humans have yet to be determined.
Considerations
You can reduce your overall calorie intake by drinking water with apple cider vinegar instead of beverages high in calories. For instance, ½ cup of apple cider vinegar contains only 17 calories. If you replace a can of soda that contains 138 calories with a water and apple cider vinegar mixture, you can save 121 calories per day. Other high-calorie drinks to avoid when attempting to lose weight include whole milk, fruit juice and sweetened iced tea.
Warning
Keep in mind that you may develop some unwanted side effects when consuming apple cider vinegar for weight loss. Vinegar is highly acidic and can lead to irritation of your esophagus. You may also worsen symptoms in medical conditions like acid reflux. You also will put yourself at risk for low potassium levels, because apple cider vinegar may interact with medications such as insulin and diuretics.
Potential
Instead of using apple cider vinegar and water to lose weight, consider following a calorie-controlled diet with regular sessions of aerobic activity. Burning 500 to 1,000 calories per day through diet adjustments and exercise can lead to weight loss at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs. per week.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss
- "The Journal of the Egyptian Public Health Association"; The Effect of Cider Vinegar on Some Nutritional and Physiological Parameters in Mice; E. O. Mohamed, et a.l; 2001
- CDC: Healthy Weight -- It's Not a Diet, It's a Lifestyle!
- Heinz Vinegar: Frequently Asked Questions
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