Apple Cider Vinegar- not a superfood.

Apple cider vinegar- not a substitute for medicine. #FactFriday

ACV= vinegar produced by fermenting apple sugars to produce acetic acid. Acetic acid is the active ingredient in vinegar.

Claims made about ACV include:

-improves digestion

-supports immune system

-cures sore throat

-helps you lose weight

-boosts energy

Bold claims.

So, what does the literature say?

Very little really.

Some studies have shown that ACV alongside a high carb meal can improve the insulin response (& therefore could affect blood glucose levels). But, there is not sufficient research to make any real conclusions.

Research assessing the use of ACV to aid weight loss is very poor, and thus I certainly would not advise taking vinegar for weight loss.

Of course, ACV and all vinegars are acidic. Therefore, drinking them can damage teeth (even when diluted with water). The damage of vinegar on teeth is exacerbated when not consumed alongside a meal, as the acid remains on the teeth for a prolonged period of time.

Drinking ACV has been associated with digestive and bowel problems, rather than improvements. Negative impacts have been predominantly noted among those with delayed gastric emptying. There is also concern that consumption can cause damage to the lining of the oesophagus and can lead to heart burn.

There is no evidence that ACV is an effective probiotic- try having some saurkraut or live yogurt instead.

ACV consumption can interfere with medications, and long-term use could cause other side effects (although research on long-term use is limited as of yet).

It does not cure anything- there is no evidence to indicate that it does. Please do not take in lieu of medicine!

Take home message:

Don't drink ACV in place of medicine or to "boost your metaolism", it can cause more harm than good. Do use it as a salad dressing or in recipes!

Lots of love,

Little O x

#weightloss #ACV #applecidervinegar #friday #satisfaction #healthateverysize #healhty #healthyeating #HealthyLiving #littleonutrition #nondietnutrition #registerednutritionist #nutritionist #nutritionadvice