It seems like every day there's a new fad diet entering the market for people to try. For the most part, these diets don't work or only provide temporary results. Drinking apple cider vinegar and lemon juice is an example of one such diet. As of 2011, there is no evidence in mainstream medical literature to indicate drinking a mixture of these two ingredients can promote weight loss in any way.
About Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has been used as an ingredient in home remedies for ages. According to Purdue University, lemon juice contains citric acid, which is believed to be a diuretic, and has ties to home remedies for a variety of conditions including acne and weight loss.
About Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a well-known home remedy ingredient and is used to clear up skin rashes, sinus congestion and more. According to "The Vinegar Institute," apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which is the ingredient many believe to be responsible for weight loss. Unfortunately, no medical studies have verified this claim, and consuming vinegar could actually cause unpleasant side effects like a burning throat, ulcers and stomach upset, says MayoClinic.com.
Diuretic Effects
Both apple cider vinegar and lemon juice have diuretic properties. According to Purdue University, lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help the body shed water weight quickly. In that same vein, apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which performs the same function. According to Health Services at Columbia, diuretics such as these can cause you to lose a few pounds quickly, but the results are only temporary.
Healthy Weight Loss
The best way to lose weight is to adopt a healthy diet and exercise regimen. This means working out for at least 30 minutes several times a week and following a diet composed of low-calorie and nutritious foods. According to the American Dietetic Association, you can incorporate apple cider vinegar and lemon juice into your diet, not as a weight loss cure, but rather as a substitute for high-fat and high-calorie salad dressings.
References
- The Vinegar Institute: Frequently Asked Questions
- Mayo Clinic; Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss: Effective?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.N., L.D.; April 2010
- Health Services at Columbia; Go Ask Alice! Apple Cider Vinegar; August 2010
- American Dietetic Association:ith Salads, Sometimes Simple is Best
- Purdue University; Lemon; Julia F. Morton; 1987
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