Vinegar for Weight Loss

Vinegar is the end product of fermentation, which is the breakdown of sugars by yeast and bacteria. First you get alcohol, then, as it breaks down further, you get vinegar. Sounds delicious, right?

Apple cider vinegar is produced from the breakdown of the sugar in apple cider to produce vinegar, just like the name implies. In addition to being a condiment, apple cider vinegar has been used as an herbal remedy for centuries, touted as a cure for everything from head lice to toe fungus, from diabetes to warts.

Method

Apple cider vinegar can be purchased in the grocery store like any other vinegar. Take one to two teaspoons after each meal; you can mix it with water or juice to dilute it and mask the flavor a bit.

The product is also available in capsule form in the supplement aisle. Take one pill after each meal.

Why it Works

It is thought that the acetic acid present in vinegar may help the body burn fat at a faster rate than normal. Another theory states that this type of vinegar ups the body's metabolism of sugar, which results in the faster burning of calories. The research is inconclusive at best.

Precautions

Vinegar is an acid and as such, can lead to problems with long-term use, including upset stomach, burning and damage to the esophagus and teeth, lowered bone density, and low potassium levels. To be safe, talk to your healthcare provider before deciding to take vinegar daily.