Food Talk: Can vinegar be used for weight loss?

QUESTION: Can vinegar really stop weight gain or promote weight loss?

ANSWER: Vinegar has long been touted in folk medicine for treatment of weight gain, arthritis and many more ailments. Proponents of the apple cider vinegar claim that drinking a tablespoon of vinegar before meals or taking an apple cider vinegar supplement will help curb your appetite, reduce food cravings and burn more fat.

None of these claims have been proven. Recently a Japanese scientist in Tokyo released results of a study they think supports the use of vinegar for weight loss. The study researched the use of acetic acid which is found in vinegar. This study was done in mice so if the research does have validity it cannot always transfer to humans.

There is another catch. Not all vinegars are created equally. You’ve got wine vinegar, malt vinegar, apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar and the list goes on and on. The acetic acid concentration will range from 4 to 8 percent. These concentrations can be dangerous. They are used in pesticides, paints and adhesives. They also have been known to cause injury and irritation to the throat, esophagus, nasal lining and erosion of teeth enamel.

With this in mind, enjoy your vinegar and oil dressing and pickles, but don’t depend on vinegar for weight loss. The risk far out weighs any proven safe benefits. There is no magic for peeling off those pounds. Once again, moderation of food and increase of exercise remains the recommended formula.

For more information about any nutrition issues, please call Registered Dietitian Ellen Jones at 479-549-2425.