Apple Cider Vinegar (also known as ACV) has been around for centuries. It is essentially fermented apple juice, where the sugar in the juice has been converted to acetic acid. Unpasteurized, unfiltered ACV is sold in health food stores and some mainstream groceries and contains a brown sediment called “the Mother of all Vinegar” (acetic acid bacteria) — but don’t get turned off — that’s the good stuff!

Apple Cider Vinegar became well known as a “health tonic” in the 1950s when it was promoted in D.C. Jarvis’ book, Folk Medicine: A Vermont Doctor’s Guide to Good Health.

Since then, it has been used in the treatment of diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, weight loss and acne.

DIABETES

In a 2007 study by researchers at Arizona State University, published in Diabetes Care, people with Type II diabetes took either 2 tablespoons of ACV or water with 1 oz of cheese at bedtime. The group who took the ACV with the cheese had between 4%-6% lower blood glucose readings in the morning than those who had cheese alone. It was a small study and more research needs to be done, but that is a very encouraging result!

Here is an additional study in Diabetes Care whereby test subjects were given apple cider vinegar or a placebo drink, then had a very high carb meal (87g) and postprandial blood sugar readings were recorded. Again, the patients who drank the ACV had lower blood glucose readings than the ones who did not. Great news!!

If you want to look into ACV treatment to help your blood glucose control, be aware that ACV also contains chromium which can influence insulin levels. This treatment would probably be best for someone with mild Type II diabetes who does not require insulin injections. Please check with your doctor before implementing Apple Cider Vinegar into your diabetes treatment.

In my next blog post, I will discuss how Apple Cider Vinegar is helpful for high blood pressure. Stay Tuned!

DISCLAIMER
Information and opinions offered on Natural Healing Remedies is not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.