LGR Holistic Wellness

For hundreds of years vinegar has had a reputation of being a ‘must have’ pantry product because of its versatility. There are numerous traditional uses such as a food preservative and disinfectant that are well known. Anecdotal claims of the uses and health benefits attributed to apple cider vinegar are wide and varied.

Unfortunately research and studies into natural health products are not done often enough; therefore many of these claims are not unequivocally supported by science.

Studies Relating to Apple Cider Vinegar and Blood Glucose

One strongly supported claim is that drinking apple cider vinegar before eating and before bedtime enables people with diabetes to have better control of their disease. A university study required participants take a drink consisting of apple cider vinegar and water, before each meal.

It was found that those type 2 diabetics with insulin resistance who participated in the trial had 34% lower after-meal glucose levels. Taking the vinegar drink at bedtime has indicated that it promotes insulin production, and therefore lowers the fasting blood glucose levels the following morning.

This study concluded that apple cider vinegar had the same effect on blood glucose levels as pharmaceutical drugs such as acarbose, nateglinide and metformin. These drugs control blood sugar levels in sufferers of type 2 diabetes. They work in the intestine, slowing the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates from food.

Apple cider vinegar is believed to bind with enzymes to metabolize carbs and fats. This is considered to be an explanation why it helps with diabetes. If the potential of apple cider vinegar being a natural treatment for the prevention or control of type 2 diabetes is realized, it would be very good news indeed.

Although the studies conducted to date have been positive, researchers point out that the study and others have all consisted of a small number of participants. They conclude that unless a large randomized trial is conducted it will be difficult to verify the true potential and benefits of apple cider vinegar on blood glucose levels.

However lack of scientific studies should not deter people from experimenting with apple cider vinegar. Plenty of anecdotal evidence praising the countless health benefits of this versatile product is widely available. It is claimed by many to be the most effective panacea as a home remedy available.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe?

Apple cider vinegar is in itself considered safe and there is no recommended dosage. Reputable sources suggest up to a tablespoon three or four times a day, and that it should be taken diluted with water.

However, because of the possible interaction with medication you may already be taking, it is recommended that you consult your health professional before trying anything new.

Apple cider vinegar is reputed to decrease blood glucose levels. Medication for people with diabetes is designed to lower blood sugar levels. Combining both insulin and apple cider vinegar could cause blood glucose levels to drop too low, resulting in temporary hypoglycemia. Closely monitored blood glucose levels will reveal if insulin medication needs to be adjusted.

Insulin sometimes has the effect of decreasing the amount of potassium in the body. Taking large doses of apple cider vinegar also has the potential to reduce potassium levels. Therefore insulin dependent people should avoid large doses of apple cider vinegar in combination with their insulin medication.

What Apple Cider Vinegar Should You Use?

If your doctor permits, choose the organic, unfiltered, unpasteurized and raw product. It may be murky and often contains a substance called the mother, which are brown-like strands that resemble cobwebs. This natural vinegar contains enzymes and healthy bacteria and is considered to contain the most health benefits.