Controlling your blood sugar requires a diligent effort. Typically, you'll need to follow a strict diet and pay careful attention to how much sugar you eat throughout the day. Apple cider vinegar might control blood sugar in some people and serves as an interesting alternative remedy, though you shouldn't use vinegar in place of prescribed treatments without consulting with a physician.
Understanding Blood Glucose and Diabetes
Blood sugar or blood glucose refers to how much sugar is in the blood at any given time. In those with diabetes, the amount of sugar in your blood can reach high levels and cause health issues. The foods you eat play a direct role in your blood sugar, according to MayoClinic.com, which advises eating at the same time each day, consuming low-fat, low-sugar snacks frequently and checking your blood sugar often to maintain control over blood glucose, especially if you have diabetes.
Research
According to a study conducted at Arizona State University and referenced in a 2006 "Medscape General Medicine" review, the acetic acid in vinegar may have an effect on blood sugar, especially in those with mild cases of type 2 diabetes. In the study, people had vinegar just before meals and just before bed time. The results showed improved maintenance of blood glucose after eating, which usually causes a spike, and a drop of 6 percent blood glucose upon waking in the morning.
Weight Loss
Losing weight can help to control blood sugar as well, especially if you're overweight. According to the "Medscape General Medicine" review, apple cider vinegar may cause a reduction in appetite and increased feelings of fullness following meals because of controlled blood sugar. This could help people lose weight, but Health Services at Columbia notes that there is no evidence showing apple cider vinegar elevates the metabolism, making it largely ineffective as a weight loss supplement. If you wish to lose weight to control your blood sugar, you'll need to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
Apple Cider Vinegar Is Not a Treatment
Despite some promising research results, there is not enough evidence to confirm apple cider vinegar as a viable blood glucose regulator. It may very well lower your blood sugar, but not enough is known in terms of dosage to suggest vinegar as a treatment, according to Health Services at Columbia. To regulate blood sugar, take any medication you're prescribed by your doctor, follow a low-calorie diet and exercise often.
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