Drinking Vinegar & Water for Weight Loss

Some dieters claim that drinking small amounts of vinegar with water each day helps them maintain their diets and lose weight. Vinegars, both apple cider and white, are safe to drink in moderation, but probably aren't the sole reason proponents lose weight. The health-oriented website Earth Clinic suggests that 2 teaspoons of cider vinegar taken with a 16-ounce glass of water, once daily, is sufficient to quell some unhealthy food cravings by helping balance your body's acid-alkaline state.

History

History records vinegar's use as a food, preservative and medicine for more than 10,000 years, making it a mainstay in traditional folk medicine. From the Greeks to the Romans to the early Babylonians, vinegar had its place as a beverage, bug-bite remedy, wart-removal remedy and beauty treatment, as well as a cure for joint aches, stomach problems and indigestion. Historical figures from Hippocrates to Cleopatra have extolled vinegar's virtues.

Acetic Acid

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Vinegar is a natural antibacterial and anti-fungal agent that becomes acetic acid through fermentation. Some studies suggest that vinegar may be an antiglycemic and fat-fighter. A study conducted at the Central Research Institute of the Mizkan Group Corporation found that mice accumulated 10 percent less body weight when they were fed a high-fat diet that also included acetic acid.

Role In Weight Loss

Proponents of a vinegar and water weight loss regimen sometimes claim that drinking a small amount of vinegar, especially cider vinegar, before meals helps suppress their appetites. Dr. Edward Group of the Global Healing Center reports that organic apple cider vinegar can help dissolve food fats in your body. This process may help your body more quickly convert the fats to energy instead of storing them, according to Dr. Group. However, there is very little scientific evidence to link vinegar to weight loss, so always consult your health care professional before taking vinegar and water for any medical condition.

Precautions

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Drinking small amounts of vinegar mixed with water won't create serious side effects in most people. Since the main component in vinegar is acetic acid, you may enjoy the drink more if you add a spoonful of honey. Drinking too much acid of any kind may cause a burning sensation in your mouth and throat. Always consult your physician before drinking vinegar if you suffer from low potassium or are being treated for kidney problems or diabetes.

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