Apple Cider Vinegar and Diabetes


Apple cider vinegar has long been touted as the miracle cure for so many illnesses and conditions. Some people believe that it does wonders for diabetes as well. As with any supplement or health claim, it's important to check out the facts for yourself before you start taking anything.

Apple cider vinegar does have helpful vitamins and minerals. Researchers also believe that it might help with the absorption of minerals such as calcium. While these nutrients can be found in other foods, such as green leafy vegetables, it might be easier to absorb in liquid form for some people.

A great way to add vinegar to your daily diet is by putting it into your own salad dressings. You can also use it in cooking. It may add a little zesty flavor to your food and can be a great substitute for other fatty flavorings you might use.

The American Diabetes Association said in a 2005 study that adding a little vinegar to the diet may help a person feel full longer. It may also help to control blood sugar and insulin levels according to the study. Some experts say that vinegar itself is the reason that people have success with the supplement, but not because it is apple cider vinegar.

Doctors think that it may assist with what they call postprandial rise in glucose and insulin. When your blood sugar rises after you eat, apple cider vinegar may be of assistance in managing that increase to help people control their blood sugar better. The study that showed that was very small with only 12 participants, so it's hard to say whether that holds true for everyone or not.