Apple cider vinegar may help lower blood sugar levels by slowing digestion. However, further research is still needed to confirm its effects.

If you make a face at the thought of sipping apple cider vinegar (ACV) or think vinegars should be left to salad dressings, hear us out.

ACV has several potential health benefits, such as:

  • helping to control blood sugar
  • promoting feelings of fullness
  • reducing body fat mass

It can be used to make a quick and healthy beverage with only two ingredients: apple cider vinegar and water.

Learn more about the benefits of apple cider vinegar, as well as an easy drink recipe you can try.

ACV has long been associated with weight loss, and studies have linked vinegar intake to the reduction of body fat mass and waist circumference.

Additionally, consuming ACV with meals may help promote feelings of satiety and fullness while lowering blood sugar levels.

The ideal amount per day depends on what you’re trying to counteract. For example, if you’re looking to manage your blood sugar, one to two tablespoons (diluted in 6-8 ounces of water) before meals is recommended.

Further research is still needed to confirm the long-term effectiveness of ACV.

Potential side effects of too much AVC can include:

  • digestive side effects, like nausea
  • weakened dental enamel
  • interactions with certain types of medication, such as diuretics

ACV should always be diluted in water and never consumed straight, as the acetic acid may burn your esophagus.

Star Ingredient: apple cider vinegar

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. cold filtered water
  • 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
  • ice
  • 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice or lemon slices (optional)
  • sweetener (optional)

Directions

  1. Stir the apple cider vinegar into a glass of cold filtered water.
  2. Add a splash of lemon juice, lemon slices.
  3. Add ice, if desired.
  4. For variations, see the suggestions below.

Try it

To perk up this ACV drink, add a splash of fresh lemon. To sweeten or make the vinegar flavor less pungent, consider also adding fresh mint leaves or a splash of fruit juice without added sugar.

Apple cider vinegar may help lower blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and promoting feelings of fullness.

It can be used to make a quick and healthy beverage with only two ingredients: apple cider vinegar and water.

ACV should always be diluted in water and never consumed straight, as the acetic acid may burn your esophagus.