Apple Cider Vinegar & Weight

Apple cider vinegar, also referred to simply as cider vinegar, is an acidic, fermented liquid made from apples and is easily identifiable due to its distinctive amber color. Apple cider vinegar can be used as an ingredient in dressings and sauces, and because of its low calorie content, it is unlikely to significantly affect your weight. Although some research indicates cider vinegar may have weight loss benefits, you should not use it to treat any medical conditions and you should consult a doctor before addressing any medical condition by yourself.

Calories

Apple cider vinegar is unlikely to affect your weight because it is very low in calories. Each 1 tbsp. serving of this liquid contains just 3 calories. Unless you use massive quantities of apple cider vinegar, a calorie content that low won't affect your weight loss or weight gain efforts; it would take less than 30 seconds of jogging to burn 3 calories.

Weight Loss Research

Apple cider vinegar and regular vinegar are purported to have benefits for weight loss, and some research supports these claims. A study published in the August 2009 edition of "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" found that consuming 1 tbsp. of vinegar did promote reduced body weight and body fat in a 12-week trial. The research was funded by Mizkan, a company that manufactures vinegar products.

Carbohydrates

Apple cider vinegar contains no carbohydrates, so it can be used on a low-carbohydrate diet. Although these diets aren't required for weight loss, low-carbohydrate diets can be successful. Some types of carbohydrates are beneficial, though. Fiber -- a nutrient apple cider vinegar does not contain -- increases feelings of fullness, so emphasizing fiber-rich foods may help you lose weight. Fiber is required for optimal health, so even if you're trying to gain weight, you should eat it, despite the appetite suppressing qualities.

Fat

Apple cider vinegar contains no fat, a nutrient essential for health. Fat is rich in calories, so eating fat-rich foods can help you gain weight and may inhibit you from losing weight.

Protein

Apple cider vinegar contains no protein. If you're trying to gain weight, high-protein foods can help improve your body composition, as protein helps build muscle. If you're trying to lose weight, protein can also be helpful. Research published in the May 2008 edition of "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" notes that protein promotes increased energy expenditure, or calorie-burning, and can encourage feelings of fullness.