Apple cider vinegar for weight loss

 

Drinking apple cider vinegar for weight loss seems far-fetched. Does it work? Answers from Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. Apple cider vinegar isn't likely to be effective for weight loss. Proponents of the apple cider vinegar diet claim that drinking a small amount of apple cider vinegar before meals or taking an apple cider vinegar supplement helps curb appetite and burn fat. However, there's little scientific support for these claims. Although occasional use of apple cider vinegar is safe for most people, it won't likely lead to weight loss — and it may pose problems of its own. For example: Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic. It may irritate your throat if you drink it often or in large amounts. Apple cider vinegar may interact with certain supplements or drugs, including diuretics and insulin. This may contribute to low potassium levels. Remember, there's no magic bullet for weight loss. The key to losing weight is burning more calories than you consume. Choose a variety of healthy foods — such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean sources of protein — and include physical activity in your daily routine. March 17, 2015 References Apple cider vinegar. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Feb. 24, 2015. Bunick CG, et al. Chemical burn from topical apple cider vinegar. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2012;67:e143. Forouhar E, et al. Non-traditional therapies for diabetes: Fact or fiction. Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives. 2012;2:18447. Salbe AD, et al. Vinegar lacks antiglycemic action on enteral carbohydrate absorption in human subjects. Nutrition Research. 2009;29:846. Hlebowicz J, et al. The botanical integrity of wheat products influences the gastric distention and satiety in healthy subjects. Nutrition Journal. 2008;7:1. Nutrition for Everyone. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/everyone/basics/foodgroups.html. Accessed Feb. 24, 2015. Colditz GA. Healthy diet in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Feb. 24, 2015. See more Expert Answers