Apple cider vinegar has earned the title of the newest weight loss practice. Supposedly, it is can potentially slow gastric emptying, improve lipid profile, increase glucose utilization in skeletal muscle, have an impact on lipid metabolism and more. However, the question shouldn’t be “what are the benefits of apple cider vinegar”, but rather “are the benefits of apple cider vinegar supported by scientific evidence”?
In the Nutrition Reviews journal, a nutrition review of 77 papers was written about the effect of vinegar on glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and body weight [1]. From this review, it was determined that there is evidence that supports favorable effects of vinegar on
- Hyperglycemia
- Hyperinsulinemia
- Hyperlipidemia
- Obesity
However, of all 77 studies that were reviewed, all had major limitations, including most studies being conducted with animals and only some with humans and a low number of participants in each study. The final conclusion in the Nutrition Reviews: Vinegar is a safe product, it’s affordable and available, but before specific health claims can be made, further long-term studies need to be conducted with more participants that address the limitations that are in current evidence. Vinegar is a cheap and easy way to add flavor to foods, such as dressings. It is low in calories and has some benefits. Nevertheless, it shouldn’t be recommended as a weight loss food until further studies have been conducted to support such claims.
Written by Idaho State University Dietetic Student,
Katie Larson
To Find a RDN in your area, check out the Idaho Academy of Nutrition and Dietetic’s Directory for RDN Services: https://www.eatrightidaho.org/directory-for-rdn-services/
Idaho Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Blog 