Apple-cider vinegar is often added to home remedies to encourage a variety of purported benefits, one of which is weight loss. However, at the time of publication, there is no scientific evidence proving that apple-cider vinegar aids in weight loss at all. Vinegar can cause some drug interactions when consumed, so consult a physician before taking it.
Function
When it comes to weight loss, apple-cider vinegar is purported to help in a variety of ways. For instance, many claim it can regulate insulin levels, prevent the body from accumulating fat and increase your metabolic rate. Evidence is lacking in this regard, but according to a Canadian Pharmacists Association study, the pectin in apple vinegar may slow down the rate at which food leaves your stomach, keeping you feeling fuller for longer and preventing overindulgence.
Research
Though some circumstantial evidence indicates that apple-cider vinegar may indirectly aid weight loss, nothing concrete is available. According to MayoClinic.com, apple-cider vinegar does not help aid weight loss in any way. Instead, eating a varied and healthy diet comprised of vegetables, lean protein, fruit and whole grains, along with regular exercise is the best way to successfully lose weight.
Types
The apple-cider vinegar you can typically buy at the supermarket is filtered and pasteurized. According to Health Services at Columbia University, organic or raw unfiltered apple-cider vinegar contains more nutrients, meaning it could be better for your weight-loss efforts. However, along with an increase in calcium, iron, potassium and copper, organic apple-cider vinegar may also contain bacteria, which could cause infection and illness. Apple-cider vinegar tablets may not be a good alternative, either. In fact, many tablets on the market do not contain the beneficial ingredients of vinegar and often include other ingredients not listed on the labels, according to University of Arkansas Newswire.
Precautions
Though apple-cider vinegar isn't harmful when used in cooking or consumed in small amounts, drinking it regularly, even diluted with water, can cause negative consequences. Apple-cider vinegar is highly acidic and can wear away at tooth enamel and irritate the esophagus over time. Vinegar can also interact with certain drugs like insulin and diuretics. This could lead to dangerously low levels of potassium, according to MayoClinic.com.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss; Katherine Zeratsky; April 2010
- Health Services at Columbia: Apple Cider Vinegar; August 2010
- University of Arkansas Newswire: Apple Cider Vinegar? Or Just Acid?; April 2006
- Canadian Pharmacists Association: The Overweight and Obesity Epidemic; Tom Smiley; 2006
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