Why Do People Drink Apple Cider Vinegar? Research Day
By admin
For the past 5 days I have dragged myself out of bed, walked into my kitchen and concocted a cocktail of cold water, lemon, cayenne pepper and apple cider vinegar.
Why?
Because at heart I’m a researcher.
And I’ve read time and time again that drinking a morning cocktail like this is good for your body and metabolism. So I figured what the heck… I’ll give it a try. Even if that means scrunching my face up with each swallow as the tart and sour taste of vinegar slides down my throat.
All because I’m curious.
But let’s back up. I don’t think curiosity is enough to subject myself to water that taste like I should be dying Easter Eggs in it. I think that some science and research has to come in to play. Agreed?
So let’s do this. Let’s quickly cover some of the WOW factors that lead me to try this ridiculous drink (though, it is growing on me).
The Weight Loss Claims Of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been used for years for everything from the flu to warts. But it’s all just good old folk remedies. No real science has proven it to be a cure all.
When it comes to weight loss, rumors have floated around for as long as I can remember that drinking it in the morning can help lose weight faster.
I researched this. And researched.
What I found?
- A study carried out in Japan had 174 obese participants. Half of them drank water the other half drank apple cider vinegar for 12 weeks. Both groups had the same diet. At the end of the study, those that had enjoyed the ACV had lost a few pounds more. As in, 1-2 pounds. The scientists believe that the vinegar as the ability to turn on genes to help the body burn fat more efficiently.
- A second study, published in the Journal of Functional Foods, had participants drink 1 tablespoon of ACV mixed with 8 ox of water before each meal. What the found was that these people had lower blood sugar levels post meal. This lead the researchers to believe that the starch blocking power (the inability for the body to break down sugar) could have an affect on weight and fat burning potential. Interesting, right?
- And finally, a 3rd study published in the Annals Of Nutrition And Metabolism found that consuming 2 teaspoons of ACV to a meal with carbs could reduce post meal blood glucose levels by as much as 20%, Finally some specific stats!
The idea is in the acetic acid that makes up vinegar. It’s hypothesized that the acid is able to block the bodies ability to break down starch. Controlling blood sugar and insulin and in return assisting in fat storage (or I guess, not storing fat).
Do I believe that apple cider vinegar is the secret to losing weight?
Hell no. There is no such thing, and the truth remains that the only way to lose weight is to take in less calories than you burn. Diet and exercise. And I also don’t think enough research as been done.
Do I believe that perhaps drinking apple cider vinegar in conjunction with a clean diet low in calories can help assist in losing weight?
Sure, why not!?
But it’s not just about weight for me. It’s about trying out new things that I know my clients want to try so that when they ask for my honest opinion, I can give it to them.
It’s also because apple cider has a heck of a lot more benefits that just helping control blood sugar…
The Real Reasons People Drink Apple Cider Vinegar
I guess the name of the headline should have read, “The Real Reasons People SHOULD Be Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar” because we all know most do it for the hopeful weight loss affects.
- Unfiltered ACV is cloudy because it contains “the mother”, a blog filled with probiotics. And we all know probiotics are important for a healthy gut!
- There is no denying that ACV stops the absorption of some starches (not all). The 20% or so that are not digested by the body are able to pass into the intestines and become food for the healthy bacteria, again improving the gut.
- Vinegars contain antioxidants which can help fight aging, lower risk of cancer and brain diseases.
- There is some evidence (though more research needs to be done) that may support the idea that vinegar can improve cardiovascular health and blood pressure.
- ACV has antibiotic properties. Great for oral hygiene.
- ACV has long been used for hair care! It’s acidity is close to our hair’s and therefore is a great conditioner, cleaner and germ killer.
Can too much apple cider vinegar be bad?
It’s a very acetic liquid, so if you have issues with indigestion or GERT than yes, you may want to lay off vinegar sipping. It can also burn your throat, just a warning. Always mix it with water to dilute the acid down a bit so not to cause damage to enamel or your throat.
Anyone with diabetes should definitely talk with their doctor before trying ACV. But then again, I’m not a registered dietician so make sure to talk with a health care professional regardless.
Am I Sold?
I hardly think that 4 days of testing out my cocktail is enough to say if I’m sold or not.
I am not sold on it being a weight loss cure, but I am curious to see how I feel at the end of my 30 day challenge. Will my hair be shiny? Will my nails be strong? Will my skin be glowing? Will I be down 5 pounds? Who knows… until then.
I’ll keep you posted!
Sources:
How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Slim You Down
Apple Cider Vinegar And Health
Different Types Of Vinegars May Benefit Health
Vinegar May Prevent Build Up Of Fat