Is Apple Cider Vinegar Really Good for Weight Loss and Lowering Cholesterol?

Discovering the Healing Powers of Apple Cider Vinegar

Hey there! Have you heard about apple cider vinegar? It’s not just a regular ingredient in your kitchen, it might actually have some cool health benefits too! People say it can help you lose weight, lower your sugar levels, and even reduce cholesterol. In this article, we’ll explore what experts have to say about these claims and give you some tips on how to use it.

The Good Stuff in Apple Cider Vinegar

So, what makes apple cider vinegar so special? Well, it’s all thanks to something called acetic acid. Dr. Carol Johnston, a nutrition expert, says that acetic acid is really important for our bodies, and vinegar is the only way we can get it through our diet. But hold on, even though some people say apple cider vinegar can cure everything, there’s not enough scientific evidence to back up those claims.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Sugar

Now, let’s talk about sugar. The evidence for apple cider vinegar’s effect on sugar levels is pretty convincing. A review of nine studies in 2021 showed that it can actually lower fasting sugar and something called HbA1c in people with type 2 diabetes. How does it work? Well, it slows down the release of glucose into our bloodstream, stops starch from breaking down, and helps our muscles take in more glucose.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Weight Loss

Okay, now onto weight loss. Some studies suggest that apple cider vinegar might help us feel fuller, which could lead to eating less and losing weight. But here’s the thing, the impact is pretty small, like maybe just a pound or two per month. Registered dietitian Kristine Dilley says that if you want to lose weight, it’s better to combine apple cider vinegar with a healthy diet and exercise.

The Other Cool Things About Apple Cider Vinegar

Guess what? There might be even more benefits to apple cider vinegar! Some early research shows that it could help with treating depression and it’s packed with antioxidants. Dr. Johnston believes that we’ll learn more about the advantages of vinegar in the future. Oh, and by the way, any vinegar with at least 5% acetic acid can give you similar benefits.

How Much Apple Cider Vinegar Should You Take?

If you’re thinking of trying apple cider vinegar, experts recommend taking 1 to 2 tablespoons every day, but don’t go over 4 tablespoons. It’s best to mix it with water or use it in your meals like salad dressings, marinades, or soups. Oh, and be careful not to drink it straight from the bottle because it’s really acidic and can hurt your mouth or damage your teeth.

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Who Should Avoid Apple Cider Vinegar?

Now, there are some people who should stay away from apple cider vinegar. If you have something called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastroparesis, it’s best to avoid it because it might make those conditions worse. And if you’re taking any medications that could interact with vinegar, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before adding it to your routine.

The Final Verdict

So, what’s the bottom line? Well, the most well-researched benefit of apple cider vinegar is its effect on sugar levels. And hey, it’s been used for a long time, even by the famous Greek physician Hippocrates! But remember, there’s still a lot more science to be done to prove all the amazing claims people make about apple cider vinegar.