Apple cider vinegar review

By Nina Chhabra on November 15, 2019

Apple cider vinegar is made from combining apples with bacteria and yeast to produce a fermented product.  The sugars in the apple are eventually converted into acetic acid, which is why the product has that vinegar smell and taste. 

Some studies have shown that drinking apple cider vinegar may help reduce the rise of blood sugar that typically occurs after eating.  In one study of healthy adults, apple cider vinegar mixed in water and sweetened with saccharine was given to patients after eating a meal that had a high glycemic index.  There was a reduction of blood sugar by 54% compared to when the same meal was consumed and only water and saccharine was ingested¹. A larger study of patients with type 2 diabetes who were on a diabetes regimen compared the addition of apple cider vinegar once a day for three months had statistically significant average decreases in fasting blood sugars, HbA1C, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels compared to placebo².

In regards to weight loss, a study with 155 obese men and women in Japan, showed that drinking a half teaspoon or one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with 8 ounces of water twice a day, led to a significant amount of weight loss. Those who drank a half teaspoon lost an average of 2.6 pounds over three months, while those who drank one tablespoon lost 4.2 pounds over three months³.

It is thought that the acetic acid is what contributes to the reducing of blood sugar. However, be careful when buying products.  The acetic acid concentration should be no more than 20%, as acetic acid in concentrations greater than 20% are considered unsafe. Caution should also be used when drinking apple cider vinegar as the acidity in the product can wear down tooth enamel.  Always mix the apple cider vinegar in water before drinking.

Have more questions about apple cider vinegar, or if apple cider vinegar could work for you? Email us at naturalmeds@vivohealthpharmacy.com