Diabetes is a medical condition that affects about 25.8 million people in the U.S. alone, according to the American Diabetes Association. Once diagnosed, you're put at an elevated risk for numerous conditions including heart disease, kidney disease and neuropathy. Some research shows apple cider vinegar is a possible means of controlling blood glucose levels, but it does not come without risks.
About Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is primarily used in cooking. It can be used in salad dressings and condiments as well. As a natural remedy, it's taken because it's full of nutrients like acetic acid and pectin, according to Dr. D.C. Jarvis, author of "Folk Medicine." For the most part, people who supplement with vinegar dilute it with water to reduce its acidity and to cut the sour flavor.
Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity
Limited research shows apple cider vinegar might help with controlling blood glucose. According to a study published in "Diabetes Care" in 2004, people with type 2 diabetes and people without diabetes who were insulin resistant or insulin sensitive were given vinegar just before a meal. The results showed an improvement in overall insulin sensitivity and control of blood sugar following the meal in the subjects who were insulin resistant or who had type 2 diabetes. Since so little research has been done in this area, apple cider vinegar shouldn't be used as a diabetes treatment.
Possible Interaction With Insulin
Apple cider vinegar may be harmful to people with diabetes, especially if they take insulin. According to Health Services at Columbia, since vinegar may lower your blood sugar, it could cause a reaction with insulin because insulin has the same effect.
Other Harmful Side Effects
Apple cider vinegar also poses other health risks, not just to those with diabetes. In fact, the acidity of vinegar could have effects such as throat irritation, esophageal burning, heartburn, stomach pain and tooth enamel erosion. Vinegar can also interact with diuretics. Always talk with your doctor about your plans to supplement with natural substances like vinegar before incorporating them into your diet.
References
- "Diabetes Care"; 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
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Statistics
- Health Services at Columbia; Go Ask Alice!: Apple Cider Vinegar; August 2010
- "Folk Medicine"; Dr. D.C. Jarvis; 1958
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