Will apple cider vinegar lower blood sugar?

Key facts

• Post-meal effect. Studies suggest vinegar may blunt blood sugar spikes after eating. [1] [2]
• Not proven therapy. Researchers call for carefully controlled trials. [1]
• Caution with diabetes. Vinegar can alter insulin levels. [2]

What does the research suggest?

The MedGenMed review "Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect" reviews research on vinegar's antiglycemic effect and notes growing interest in vinegar as add-on therapy in diabetes. [1] Harvard Health summarises that vinegar might prevent spikes in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes by blocking starch absorption. [2]

Is it safe to try?

The review calls for carefully controlled trials to check side effects of regular vinegar intake, and lists rare reports of oesophageal injury and low potassium. [1] Harvard Health advises diluting vinegar and says people with diabetes should be particularly cautious. [2] Harvard Health also says vinegar has been reported to cause or worsen low potassium, which matters for people on medicines that lower potassium, such as common diuretics. [2] The review describes low potassium in a woman who drank about 250 mL of apple cider vinegar daily for 6 years. [1] Talk to your doctor before using it for blood sugar.

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We don't give health advice. For questions about your health, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.