Apple Cider Vinegar For Diabetes

For centuries, apple cider vinegar has been used as a natural health remedy and a cleansing agent owing to its curative and anti-bacterial properties. It is during the fermentation of apple cider that the transformation into an alcohol and then to a vinegar takes place. Bacteria and yeast acting on the sweet cider magically changes its properties. Acetic acid, commonly found in vinegars, gives apple cider vinegar its typical taste. It also contains other acids like citric and lactic acids.

Pasteurization of this vinegar, however, kills the important nutrients and enzymes. For this reason, it is advisable to have only the organic and unfiltered vinegar if one is to enjoy its health benefits. Scientific evidence on the health benefits of apple cider vinegar is scarce and one should consult a health care professional before taking it. Get detailed information on diet for diabetes

In the case of diabetics, diet plays an important role in controlling blood sugar levels. Preliminary research has indicated that apple cider vinegar is good for diabetes as it increases insulin sensitivity and helps in lowering blood sugar levels. To understand better the relationship between apple cider vinegar and blood sugar levels, it is essential to understand a little about diabetes.
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body is unable to utilize glucose and convert it into energy. In order to convert glucose into energy, the body requires insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas. In the case of diabetics, the pancreas is either unable to produce insulin or the body is unable to utilize the insulin effectively (reduced insulin sensitivity). The first condition is known as type 1 diabetes and since it commonly affects children and young adults it is also known as juvenile diabetes. The second condition is known as type 2 diabetes and is the more common variety. As the body is unable to convert glucose into energy, it remains in the blood resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. This has many adverse consequences for health and can damage major organs like the heart and the kidneys. Also see recommended diet for type 2 diabetes

Research has elicited that apple cider vinegar is beneficial to people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Just two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar can instantaneously help to reduce blood sugar levels. Evidence also suggests that apple cider vinegar when taken either before or during a meal, suppresses the spike in blood sugar levels that usually takes place after a meal. A research that involved feeding animals a diet enhanced with apple cider vinegar for four weeks suggested that good cholesterol levels had increased, while triglyceride levels had decreased due to its consumption. This may also be beneficial for diabetics who frequently develop blocked arteries and coronary heart disease. Similar studies that show a beneficial relationship between apple cider juice and type 1 diabetes have not been conducted. Presumably, apple cider vinegar, because it increases insulin sensitivity, can also help type 1 diabetics regulate their insulin dose and blood sugar levels, though further research is needed on this subject.
There is an established relationship between weight and blood sugar levels. The higher the weight of a person, the more difficult it is for the pancreas to secrete the required levels of insulin. This is why type 2 diabetics need to watch their diet and also lose weight. There is evidence to suggest that taking two spoons of apple cider vinegar before each meal can help you lose weight over a period of time. This is another manner in which apple cider vinegar can help in controlling blood sugar levels.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes or gestational diabetes mellitus is a condition in which pregnant women, who have not been previously diagnosed with diabetes, exhibit increased blood sugar levels. This usually happens during the third trimester. It is caused by the inability of the pancreas to secrete insulin in the amounts required for both the mother and the fetus, leading to increased blood sugar levels. Generally, gestational diabetes doesn’t have any symptoms and is detected by screening during pregnancy. It is a condition that is treatable, with diet playing a big role in controlling blood sugar levels. Women with this condition are at increased risk of developing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as well as preeclampsia. Apple cider vinegar can help with this condition because of its effect on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels.

Side Effects:

The esophagus and the digestive tract could get damaged, if apple cider vinegar is consumed undiluted in liquid or in pill form. It may also cause damage to tooth enamel. It can also lower bone mineral density. Apple cider vinegar should be avoided by people who are allergic to apples. Pregnant women should consult their physician or health care provider before consuming apple cider vinegar.

Submitted on January 16, 2014