Organic Apple Cider Vinegar & Blood Glucose Levels

The foods you consume can affect your blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes or hypoglycemia. Apple cider vinegar is a common ingredient in many complementary and alternative health therapies. Depending on the amount you consume, this substance may have a very slight effect on your blood sugar levels because of the small amount of carbohydrate it contains.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Organic apple cider vinegar comes from organic apples, grown by orchardists without the use of harsh chemicals such as certain pesticides and fertilizers. Although apple cider vinegar has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses, there is little evidence to support many of the health claims regarding this substance. Common medicinal uses for apple cider vinegar include taking it to suppress appetite, treat edema, reduce acne breakouts, lower blood pressure, treat fungal infections and help heal sunburns. Apple cider vinegar is not a standard or customary treatment in managing or preventing diabetes or other conditions that affect your blood glucose levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, some small studies show positive results in this area, although not enough research exists to promote the use of this substance as a method of controlling blood sugar levels.

Blood Glucose Levels

People with diabetes frequently need to monitor blood sugar levels. Diabetes affects your body’s ability to manufacture and regulate insulin, the substance that helps metabolize carbohydrates from food. The carbohydrate content in foods is the most important factor in determining the effect they may have on blood sugar levels. Eating consistent amounts of carbohydrates every day is essential in maintaining your optimal level of health. Making food substitutions allows you to maintain a healthy blood sugar level while consuming the variety of foods and substances you enjoy. Sugary, starchy foods tend to affect blood glucose levels to a much greater extent than foods with minimal amounts of carbohydrates, such as apple cider vinegar.

Nutritional Facts

One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar contains 0.14 g of carbohydrates, 1 mg calcium, 1.03 mg iron, 1 mg magnesium, 1 mg phosphorus, 11 mg potassium and 1 mg sodium. It does not supply your body with measurable amounts of protein or fat.

Precautions

Although apple cider vinegar does not pose a health risk to most people, talk to your doctor before using it to treat a health condition, especially if you have diabetes or another serious medical condition. Continue to monitor your blood glucose levels and follow medical recommendations for managing diabetes.