Many individuals have employed apple cider vinegar for weight loss, and this method is still quite popular within certain online circles. Is there any truth behind such a method? Is an apple cider vinegar diet worth the effort, or is such an approach nothing more than veritable smoke and mirrors? Let’s take some time to separate fact from fiction in order to appreciate the main takeaway points. You can then begin to focus your efforts in the right direction.
The Theory Behind Drinking Vinegar for Weight Loss
Why is ACV for weight loss such a popular strategy? While the exact reasons are debatable, the fact of the matter is that vinegar and its apple cider variant have been known to mankind for thousands of years. Furthermore, some individuals who consume apple cider vinegar state that it helps to digest a large meal. It is therefore not difficult to see how losing weight and consuming vinegar seem to enjoy a hand-in-hand relationship.
Having said this, the benefits of apple cider vinegar for weight loss are debatable at best. A study conducted by Harvard University found that even after being consumed for long periods of time, only modest reductions in body mass index (BMI) occurred. Others seem to agree; stating that there is little evidence to support the use of apple cider vinegar to lose weight. We should still delve a bit deeper to analyze some other key takeaway points.
Can I Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Belly Fat Reduction?
We first need to appreciate how belly fat accumulates over time. This type of fat (also known as visceral fat) is primarily caused by an excess production of a stress-related hormone known as cortisol. This is also why dieting alone may not eliminate stubborn belly fat.
Other lifestyle changes (such as an increased level of physical activity and a reduction in stress) are more potent strategies. To put it simply, consuming apple cider vinegar in the hopes that you will be able to shave off those love handles will normally be met with a fair amount of frustration due to a lack of results.
The Psychosomatic Effect
Considering all the observations highlighted above, why do some individuals claim to experience positive results when including apple cider vinegar within their diets? It can be argued that additional research may still be required in order to fully understand the other ways in which acetic acid (the active ingredient within any type of vinegar) may interact with human metabolism. Others might instead benefit from the placebo effect. Ultimately, the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar for losing weight will vary from person to person.
When is the Best Time to Consume Apple Cider Vinegar?
Let us now assume for the moment that you have experienced results with apple cider vinegar in the past. If so, then congratulations are in order! We still need to address another important question. When is the best time to drink apple cider vinegar for weight loss?
The majority of herbalists and nutritionists state that consuming a small amount of apple cider vinegar approximately one hour before bedtime is the best strategy. One takeaway point here is that acetic acid may play a slight role in regulating glucose levels within the blood during the overnight hours. Glucose abnormalities have been linked with several chronic health conditions; the most prominent being adult-onset (type 2) diabetes.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Apple Cider Vinegar?
At Spatz3, we assume that When it’s consumed moderately, there are few risks to mention. However, remember that apple cider vinegar is acidic by its very nature. Those with existing digestive problems such as GERD or an ulcer should therefore avoid this substance. This is once again on a case-by-case basis. It is also possible to obtain apple cider vinegar in a powder or capsule form by visiting your local nutrition outlet.
What if you are already losing weight with the help of the Spatz3 adjustable gastric balloon platform? Could drinking vinegar speed up the process? While there is a limited amount of evidence available, you might be pleasantly surprised with the results; especially when using vinegar as a digestive aid. It will be interesting what future research may discover about the efficacy of apple cider vinegar for weight loss.
