Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity in recent years for its reported weight loss benefits. It is a natural, unfiltered, and unpasteurized liquid that is made by fermenting apples.
The vinegar has been used for centuries for its medicinal purposes, weight loss potential, and other health benefits. In this article, we will explore the untold benefits of apple cider for weight loss.
: 1. Helps to Suppress Appetite
One of the reasons apple cider vinegar is popular for weight loss is because it helps to suppress appetite. When you consume the vinegar, it increases feelings of fullness. This means that you eat fewer calories overall throughout the day.
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that consuming apple cider vinegar before meals helped reduce appetite and resulted in a decrease in calorie intake by 200-275 calories per day.
: 2. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels.
A study published in the Journal of Diabetes Research found that consuming apple cider vinegar before a meal helped reduce blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes by up to 34%. Lower blood sugar levels can decrease hunger and sugar cravings.
: 3. Boosts Metabolism
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has also been found to potentially boost metabolism.
A study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry found that consuming the vinegar increased the expression of genes that are involved in fat metabolism.
: 4. Reduces Belly Fat
Belly fat is particularly harmful as it is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Apple cider vinegar has been found to potentially reduce belly fat.
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that consuming apple cider vinegar daily for 12 weeks reduced belly fat, waist circumference, and overall body weight in obese Japanese individuals.
: 5. Contains Few Calories
Apple cider vinegar is low in calories, with 1 tablespoon containing only 3 calories. This means that you can incorporate vinegar into your diet without adding significant calories.
The vinegar can be added to salads, dressings, or consumed diluted in water.
: 6. Reduces Water Retention
Water retention can contribute to bloating and weight gain. Apple cider vinegar has been found to help reduce water retention. The acetic acid in the vinegar helps to increase urine output and potentially reduce water weight.
: 7. Supports Digestion
Apple cider vinegar is a natural source of enzymes that can support digestion. The vinegar can help to facilitate the breakdown of food in the stomach, leading to better nutrient absorption and potentially preventing bloating and indigestion.
: 8. Decreases Fat Storage
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has also been found to potentially decrease fat storage.
A study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry found that consuming vinegar daily reduced body weight, body fat mass, and serum triglyceride levels in obese individuals. The study concluded that vinegar may have an anti-obesity effect by reducing fat accumulation.
: 9. Improves Overall Health
Apple cider vinegar has been found to have numerous health benefits. The vinegar contains antioxidants that can help protect against oxidative stress.
It also has potential antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help support a healthy immune system.
: 10. Easy to Incorporate into Your Diet
Apple cider vinegar is easy to incorporate into your diet. The vinegar can be added to salads, dressings, or consumed diluted in water. It can also be used in cooking as a natural flavor enhancer.
It is important to note that apple cider vinegar is acidic and should be consumed in moderation. It is recommended to dilute the vinegar in water and consume no more than 1-2 tablespoons per day.
: In Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar has numerous untold benefits for weight loss. The vinegar has been shown to help suppress appetite, lower blood sugar levels, boost metabolism, reduce belly fat, and improve overall health.
It is important to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your diet in moderation and consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement or diet regimen.