Effects of Vinegar on Diabetes

Controlling diabetes involves controlling how much sugar you eat and digest. Under normal conditions, your pancreas would automatically produce insulin to help process glucose for use in all of your body's cells. Diabetes compromises your pancreas's release of insulin, which leaves unprocessed glucose circulating in the body. Consuming vinegar before meals shows promise as a food-based alternative for regulating sugar levels in the body.

Glycemic Index (GI)

• Vinegar helps to lower the glycemic index of foods. The glycemic index measures how fast carbohydrates are converted into sugar and used by the body.

Expert Insight

• A study by Carol Johnston of Arizona State University found that starch-digesting enzymes are blocked, by the vinegar's acetic acid, from breaking down carbohydrates in the diet. They are instead excreted out of the body.

Appetite

• Vinegar helps to control the appetite and may help with gradual weight loss. Weight gain is often also associated with diabetes.

Add to Drink or Food

• To curb its bitter taste, consider adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of vinegar to a small glass of water, apple, grapefruit or orange juice. Apple cider vinegar may also be added to salads, as another way to take it before meals.

Research

• The American Diabetes Association says more research is necessary to gain a more comprehensive overview of the effect of vinegar on diabetes.