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Regularly shared on social media, cider vinegar works wonders for digestion and even weight loss. The gastroenterologist separates fact from fiction in his Instagram account.
For the common man, apple cider vinegar is the main ingredient in salad dressing. For others, especially on social media, it’s a miracle product that helps you lose weight, reduce glycemic peaks (blood sugar levels) caused by industrial pizza and fight acne and much more. But what should we think about this health effect? Are they overrated? On his Instagram account, gastroenterologist Julien Scanzi last June analyzed the scientific literature on which the supposed benefits of this fermented apple juice are based.
Health claims based on animal studies
In the first part of the video, the doctor details the main health claims of cider vinegar. Thus, it is believed that this elixir can facilitate digestion and has an anti-microbial role as it secretes more gastric juices and other digestive enzymes. It will also be of interest to people with diabetes (or at risk of developing diabetes) as it will improve insulin sensitivity and therefore help regulate blood sugar (blood sugar levels). It also has antioxidant power due to the polyphenols it contains. Finally, many praise the positive effects of this liquid on cholesterol and weight management.
If these arguments are based on scientific data, then they should be qualified, the gastroenterologist claims in front of the camera. “Even if it seems that apple cider vinegar has a lot of ‘healthy’ properties, it should not be considered as a miracle cure or a means of losing weight on its own,” he emphasizes. Most of the studies showing benefit have been done in animals (especially mice and rats), and we have no shortage of data in humans.
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In addition, Dr. Julien Scanzi puts aside the idea that cider vinegar can enrich our microbiota and improve our digestive comfort with good bacteria. “The acidity seems too high to hope for a real probiotic effect. Most of the microorganisms cannot stand the acidity of vinegar,” he adds.
Use in moderation
Beyond these false promises, according to the health expert, there are even risks in regular consumption of cider vinegar. “If you use it excessively, undiluted, or if you don’t brush your teeth afterward, there is a risk of tooth enamel erosion,” he warns. It’s also good to know that the drink is high in histamine, a molecule that causes inflammatory symptoms in allergy sufferers.
Source: Le Figaro
