You probably already have it sitting in your pantry or in your stock of cleaning supplies -- apple cider vinegar, a longstanding natural cleaning agent and home remedy for numerous ailments, from sore throat to infection. Some people also use apple cider vinegar as a weight-loss aid.
Potential
The notion of using apple cider vinegar to help drop unwanted pounds is somewhat controversial. Those who insist that apple cider vinegar is an effective weight loss aid say that drinking a spoonful or two of vinegar before each meal can curb the appetite and burn fat. There is some evidence for this claim. For example, Carol Johnston, a researcher in the Department of Nutrition at Arizona State University, found that, in a study on vinegar and cholesterol, when she gave some participants vinegar and some a placebo drink twice a day for four weeks, the vinegar-drinkers lost weight.
Caveats
Not everyone agrees that apple cider vinegar can help you lose weight, however. Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., of MayoClinic.com, states that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the claims that vinegar is an effective weight-loss aid. While vinegar contains multiple nutrients, and its acetic acid may promote water weight loss, evidence is scant that apple cider vinegar actually burns fat or decreases appetite.
Multiple Uses
Whether or not apple cider vinegar helps promote weight loss, it has other uses and benefits. According to Columbia University, apple cider vinegar aids digestion and calms sunburn. Vinegar is known to have been used for centuries to kill germs and treat various infections and illnesses. And there's no doubt that anecdotal evidence exists for the use of apple cider vinegar to control weight, even in the absence of solid scientific evidence.
Considerations
If you do decide to try apple cider vinegar for weight loss, clear it with your physician first. While apple cider vinegar is likely safe for most people, excessive use can irritate your throat and may interact with certain medications. The only proven way to successfully lose weight is by reducing calorie intake and increasing calorie-burning physical activity.
Member Comments