The Diabetic Diet: Vinegar

Vinegar has surprising benefits on blood sugar control in people with diabetes

Apple cider vinegar is a perfect addition to any diabetic diet.

Researchers studying the effects of vinegar on people with diabetes have found that two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (mixed with water and a noncaloric sweetener) reduced glucose and insulin response when taken just before a high-carbohydrate meal consisting of a bagel and orange juice.

In fact, vinegar worked just as well as diabetes drugs and reduced the usual blood sugar surge in people with diabetes and insulin resistance (pre-diabetes) by 25 and 50 percent, respectively, and improving insulin sensitivity 19 and 34 percent.

Aside from its unpleasant taste, vinegar has no adverse effects and costs considerably less than most conventional treatments.

In a follow-up study, the lead researcher instructed volunteers to take two tablespoons of vinegar before two of their daily meals for four weeks. During that time, they lost an average of two pounds, and some lost up to four (weight didn’t budge in the control group). This lead reasearcher speculated that vinegar may interfere with enzymes that break down carbohydrates, allowing carbohydrates to pass through the body without being absorbed.

WATCH: Dr. Whitaker Talks About Apple Cider Vinegar for Managing Blood Sugar and Losing Weight

More Dr. Whitaker Advice on Diabetes

• How to plan a diabetic diet
• The importance of cinnamon in the diabetic diet
• What sweeteners can be part of a diabetic diet?