Health Benefits From Natural Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is made up of fermented apples and acetic acid, and can be found either in liquid or liquid gel cap form and taken as a nutritional supplement for its potential health benefits. Apple cider vinegar has a strong, bitter taste and can be used to enhance the flavor of certain foods. Although apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe, some side effects may still occur. Consult your physician before using apple cider vinegar liquid or gel caps as a nutritional supplement to make sure that it is safe for you.

Weight Control

Apple cider vinegar supplements may help promote weight loss through the stimulation of lipolysis. Lipolysis is the mobilization of free fatty acids from adipose tissue, or fat cells, into the mitochondria of your muscle cells where they are then broken down into glucose and used for energy. According to a 2009 study published in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry," the acetic acid contained in apple cider vinegar may help lower body fat in mice, which may also have a similar effect in humans.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Apple cider vinegar supplements may improve cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. According to a 2006 study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition," the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar reduces total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Another study published in 2001 by "Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry" discovered that apple cider vinegar may also help lower blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides, apple cider vinegar supplementation may be effective at improving heart health and cardiovascular fitness.

Insulin Sensitivity

Diabetics, who have a difficult time controlling blood sugar levels, may benefit from apple cider vinegar supplementation, according to the American Diabetes Association. Taking an apple cider vinegar supplement before going to bed can improve blood sugar levels hours later when you wake up, indicating a positive effect of apple cider vinegar on blood glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity. The ability to effectively regulate and control blood sugar levels is essential in the management of diabetes.

Toxicity

In addition to the potential health benefits of apple cider vinegar supplements, the toxicity of apple cider vinegar and acetic acid is relatively low, according to the book "Essentials of Sports Nutrition and Supplements." High doses of apple cider vinegar may increase your susceptibility to developing a potassium deficiency, since acetic acid may interfere with the proper absorption of potassium. If you are taking potassium supplements to treat hypokalemia, or low potassium, consult with your doctor before supplementing with apple cider vinegar.