Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss

The health benefits of apples have been immortalized with the adage, 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away.' Apples contain various vitamins and minerals and above all, pectin, a soluble fiber. Apple cider vinegar (that is made from apples) is claimed to be much more healthy than apples. This vinegar, which is produced by fermentation of whole apples, has long been used as a health supplement, as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and pectin.

Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar has been used by humans throughout the centuries. Apart from the culinary uses, vinegar is also found to be effective for cleaning utensils, killing weeds, etc. The therapeutic uses of vinegar can be traced back to the Biblical times, when this product was used widely to treat infections. Apple cider vinegar too has a long history of human use, which includes both culinary, therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. Highly valued for its healing properties, this vinegar is a commonly used health aid.

As stated above, apple cider vinegar is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin, A, vitamin P, vitamin B1, vitamin B2 and vitamin B6. It also contains minerals like manganese, iron, calcium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, copper, phosphorus, silicon, chlorine and fluorine. Apart from these vitamins and minerals, apple cider vinegar has many enzymes, amino acids, potash, alcoholic acids, propionic acid and pectin. Hence, it is considered the best diet supplement. It is also claimed that this vinegar can lower blood cholesterol, help digestion, lower blood pressure, strengthen the heart, normalize blood sugar and prevent cancer. Apple cider vinegar is also considered good for preventing leg cramps and arthritis. Some people use diluted apple cider vinegar as a hair wash, as it is said to fight dandruff. This product is also claimed to flush out harmful toxins from the body. So, there are numerous health benefits of apple cider vinegar. Nowadays, this vinegar is used as a weight loss agent too. Scroll down for knowing more about this so-called use of apple cider vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Weight Loss

A weight loss diet plan was introduced in the 1970s, which was called apple cider vinegar lecithin kelp diet. As the name rightly suggests, a combination of apple cider vinegar, kelp, lecithin and vitamin B6, was used to achieve weight loss. The proponents of this program claimed that this diet plan can promote metabolism, which can result in burning body fat, in a faster rate. But nowadays, apple cider vinegar in itself is said to be sufficient for weight loss. It is suggested that in order to achieve weight loss, you have to start with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (mixed in a glass of water) before every meal. You may gradually increase the quantity to two or three teaspoons. Though, there is no scientific evidence for this claim, there are people who vouch for the effectiveness of this vinegar in achieving weight loss.

Apple Cider Vinegar - How it Works

So, there is no proven theory to establish the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar for weight loss. It is believed that the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and other components in apple cider vinegar jointly act to increase the rate of metabolism, reduce water retention and suppress appetite. If consumed before meals, it can cause a sensation of fullness, which prevents the user from having food for a long time. According to some recent medical research, vinegar slows down the rise of blood sugar and insulin levels, after a meal. It is believed that the feeling of fullness is due to the acetic acid content in apple cider vinegar. It is also recommended that for adopting an apple cider vinegar diet, you have to use a product, which is made through double fermentation of whole apples. It should not be distilled, filtered or pasteurized, as these processes can spoil the beneficial components in apple cider vinegar. Some people use apple cider vinegar tablets for this purpose. However, tablets are not preferred, as there are no strict standards regarding their production and sale. It is very much important to start this diet plan, as per the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner. You must also seek the opinion of your doctor, before starting the diet.

As in case of any other diet plan, the rate of weight loss can vary from one person to another. But, it is claimed that gradual, but permanent weight loss can be achieved with the help of apple cider vinegar. Sometimes, it may take around two years to achieve any significant weight loss. It is very important to take the recommended doses, as high doses of apple cider vinegar can be harmful to the body. High doses of apple cider vinegar is said to cause low potassium level and low bone density. It may also interact with certain prescription drugs and supplements. So, it is always better to seek the opinion of your doctor before adopting an apple cider vinegar weight loss routine.