The American Diabetes Association reports that as of 2011, 25.8 million Americans suffered from diabetes, which breaks down to nearly 10 percent of the population. Even more startlingly, an estimated 79 individuals have pre-diabetes. Having diabetes not only restricts the type of foods you may consume, but it also raises your risk for developing high blood pressure, heart disease, neuropathy, kidney disease and amputation. While diabetes treatment must be overseen by your physician, the use of organic apple cider vinegar may prove to be beneficial for those with diabetes.
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic apple cider vinegar is manufactured without undergoing pasteurization. Proponents of apple cider vinegar suggest the double-fermentation process of organic apple cider vinegar enhances the production of enzymes and nutrients capable of supporting healthy bodily functions. Dr. Edward Group states in the report "The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar," published by Global Healing Center, that apple cider vinegar contains calcium, ash, potassium, malic acid, pectin and acetic acid. It is believed acetic acid is the primary active constituent capable of medicinal benefits.
Proposed Benefits
The American Diabetes Association "Diabetes Care" journal outlines a study performed by the Arizona State University Department of Nutrition where subjects with type 2 diabetes were mixed in with a group of non-diabetic subjects. Throughout the study, patients were randomly selected to consume an apple cider vinegar solution or a placebo solution followed by a high-carbohydrate snack. At the conclusion of the study, those who were insulin-resistant and consumed apple cider vinegar were found to have increased insulin sensitivity. Glucose and insulin levels were also reduced. While this study suggests apple cider vinegar is as effective at treating type 2 diabetes as the medication metformin, further research is required to conclusively determine its effectiveness.
Dosage Recommendations
Dr. Edward Groups suggests mixing 1 tbsp. of organic apple cider vinegar with 32 oz. of water and consuming it once a day. David L. Katz, M.D., states in the January 2007 issue of "O, The Oprah Magazine" that doses of 1 to 3 tbsp. of vinegar per day is considered safe. Discuss the dosage level of apple cider vinegar with your doctor prior to starting a supplementation routine.
Safety Considerations
If you are currently taking diabetes medications, speak with your physician regarding the safety of supplementing with apple cider vinegar. Side effects associated with apple cider vinegar include heartburn, indigestion and gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not supplement with apple cider vinegar if you have an ulcer, as the high acidic content may irritate the ulcer.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Statistics
- Global Healing Center; The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar; Dr. Edward Group; August 2008
- "Diabetes Care" Journal; Vinegar Improves Insulin Sensitivity to a High-Carbohydrate Meal in Subjects With Insulin Resistance or Type 2 Diabetes; Carol S. Johnston, Ph.D., et al.; January 2004
- "O, The Oprah Magazine"; Is Vinegar An Appetite Suppressant?; David L. Katz, M.D.; January 2007
- eMedTV; Apple Cider Vinegar Safety; Kristi Monson, PharmD, et al.; November 2007
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