Apple cider vinegar has been consumed for thousands of years for its taste as well as its purported health benefits. The ancient Egyptians and the Chinese all mention apple cider vinegar as a health aid in their ancient texts. They believed that it was the fermentation process that bestowed the apple cider with its health producing properties. The apple cider vinegar diet as we know it was developed by Dr. J. C. Jarvis in his book “Folk Medicine” published in 1958 by The Fawcett World Library.
The diet does not advocate making any dietary modifications and it does not make recommendations for an exercise regimen. The benefit of the apple cider vinegar diet derives solely from drinking 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar 15 minutes prior to every meal. If you have problems with the taste, the vinegar may be diluted in a glass of water prior to drinking. Eating a reasonable diet and adding some daily exercise will help to accelerate the weight loss benefits of this diet.
HOW IT WORKS
The apple cider vinegar diet works by curbing appetite. The fiber in the vinegar can lead to feeling full sooner then you normally would. This helps you decrease your caloric intake per meal. The apple cider vinegar diet also works by increasing the body’s ability to burn fat. This is accomplished by the pectin in the apple cider vinegar which replenishes the good bacteria in your intestines thus aiding the elimination of toxins from your body. Apple cider vinegar is also known to regulate blood sugar levels, stop the craving for sugar and reduce the cholesterol in your blood.
Apple cider vinegar also has many essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids that your body needs for proper functioning. The acetic acid in the vinegar helps your body metabolize proteins and fats while aiding in the absorption of vital nutrients.
CONCLUSION
Although apple cider vinegar taken in small doses, some caution needs to be taken before starting this diet. Since apple cider vinegar is very acidic it can irritate the inside of your mouth and throat. It can also interfere with certain medications. Prolonged and heavy use of apple cider vinegar can result in low blood potassium and has shown to have an adverse effect on bone density. Screening by your primary care provider is advised before starting this diet.
