Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas. It helps the body produce energy by breaking down glucose. Low levels of insulin in the blood or reduced sensitivity of the muscle, fat and liver cells to the hormone, can lead to a chronic condition known as diabetes, defined by high levels of glucose in the blood. This can lead to blurry vision, excessive thirst, fatigue, frequent urination and weight loss. Treatment involves oral medications and insulin injections. Certain foods such as vinegar may also help manage diabetes and regulate insulin levels in the blood.
About Vinegar
Vinegar has been used traditionally as a condiment and food ingredient. It is made by fermenting carbohydrate-rich foods including molasses, apples, dates and potatoes. An organic acid called acetic acid is responsible for its pungent taste and smell. It also contains vitamins, minerals, polyphenolic compounds and some nonvolatile acids. Vinegar has also been used to treat a variety of conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections, cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancers and diabetes. The dose depends on the age of the patient and condition being treated.
Link Between Vinegar and Insulin
Adding vinegar to the meal can increase the sensitivity of the cells to insulin, lower blood glucose levels and increase satiety, according to a study published in the September 2005 issue of the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition." Another study published in a 2006 issue of the journal "Medscape General Medicine" also states that vinegar significantly improves insulin resistance and helps lower the blood sugar levels immediately after meals. It also slows the progression of diabetes in high-risk individuals. In addition to treating the insulin resistance that commonly occurs in Type 2 diabetes, vinegar also reduces hyperglycemia in individuals with Type 1 diabetes, which occurs due to reduced production of insulin by the pancreas, says an article published in the February 2010 issue of the journal "Diabetes Care."
Side Effects of Vinegar
Vinegar is generally safe to use, although inflammation of the mouth and pharynx and injury of the esophagus may occur in rare cases. It can also lead to reduced potassium levels in the blood, which causes irregular heartbeat, breakdown of muscle fibers, constipation, fatigue and paralysis.
Precautions
Always talk to a doctor before using vinegar to treat insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels. In spite of these benefits, vinegar may not replace your existing diabetes medications. Inform your doctor about any other medication you might be taking or other pre-existing conditions.
References
- "Medscape General Medicine"; Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect; Carol S. Johnston, et al.; May 2006
- "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Vinegar Supplementation Lowers Glucose and Insulin Responses and Increases Satiety After a Bread Meal in Healthy Subjects; E --stman, et al.; September 2005
- "Diabetes Care"; Vinegar Decreases Postprandial Hyperglycemia in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes; Panayota Mitrou, et al.; September 2010
- PubMed Health: Diabetes
Member Comments