Apple Cider Vinegar and Mineral Uptake

Even as a young child, I recall hearing about the many, many benefits of apple cider vinegar. I always wondered WHY?  What was at the root of its ability to help so many conditions? I know in my medical weight loss practice, many of my patients incorporate a shot of apple cider vinegar into their morning routine.  I wish there was more research but the truth is that there is a lack of science-based studies about apple cider vinegar for therapeutic health purposes. This is a common scenario for many natural and alternative therapies.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Cellular Function

The word vinegar, which comes from the Latin word for “sour wine.”  Vinegar has been used for thousands of years.  Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, vitamin C, and a multitude of B vitamins. One thing that I learned was that the Acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can increase the body’s cellular  absorption of very important minerals. Trace minerals are a co-factor for many cellular reactions that take place in the body and therefore improve cellular function.

In China, vinegar has been found all the way back to 800 BC.  Vinegar was very important in the Chinese diet and is also the earliest known prescription.  They used vinegar to treat everything from animal bites to hernia’s.  In Japan, there is an old saying … “Less salt, more vinegar,” which is listed second in the ten longevity rules.  Apple cider vinegar also has a strong history in Africa as an alternative medicine.

The Little Research on Apple Cider Vinegar

Despite the lack of overall research, there have been several studies showing some promise of apple cider vinegar as an alternative therapy.

• In 2012, a Dutch study found that in one North African culture, women who consumed a daily cup of apple cider vinegar achieved greater weight loss than women who did not.  I actually find this to be true in the clinical experience that I have with my patient population.
• I have seen studies showing an improvement in insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle cells of those with Type 2 Diabetes.
• A 2015 study showed that vinegar intake for patients with Type 2 diabetes improved triglyceride levels,  blood sugar stabilization and insulin sensitivity.

I have also learned that caution must be taken to prevent tooth enamel thinning if apple cider vinegar is consumed daily.  Caution must be taken not to over do apple cider vinegar as it can lower potassium levels. Overall, it is safe and nourishing to the body. Try a shot in the am or add a tablespoon to your water for a refreshing beverage!

Categories: Body Composition, Eating Well, General Wellness, hCG Diet, HCG Diet Weight Loss, HCG Weight Loss, Meal Prep and Recipes, medical weight loss, Mindful Eating, Weight Loss