Apple cider vinegar for weight loss – Mayo Clinic

Drinking apple cider vinegar for weight loss seems far-fetched. Does it work?

Answer From Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.

Apple cider vinegar isn’t likely to be effective for weight loss.

Proponents of apple cider vinegar claim that it has numerous health benefits and that drinking a small amount or taking a supplement before meals helps curb appetite and burn fat.

However, there’s little scientific support for these claims. Studies of apple cider vinegar for weight loss have not consistently shown significant and sustainable weight loss across diverse groups of people.

Although occasional use of apple cider vinegar is safe for most people, it does carry some risks. For example:

• Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic. It may irritate your throat if you drink it often or in large amounts.
• Apple cider vinegar may interact with certain supplements or drugs, including diuretics and insulin. This may contribute to low potassium levels.

Remember, there’s no magic bullet for weight loss. Be skeptical of any approach that claims you can lose weight without decreasing calories or increasing physical activity.

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