Vinegar Weight Loss Study Retracted

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The key to vinegar's health-promoting properties lies in its high concentration of acetic acid, and not beneficial properties of apple cider vinegar. The “mother” in ACV is a unique mix of bacteria, yeast and cellulose that forms during fermentation, but the mother does not perform any specific weight loss function. Moreover, acetic acid’s role as a supplement for slowing digestive processes is minimal when compared to the latest compounded GLP-1 weight loss medications.

Modern research continues to validate some traditional uses of vinegar while debunking others. Dietary vinegar does contains B-vitamins and plant-based antioxidants called polyphenols that can help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. Its antimicrobial properties can also eliminate certain bacteria strains. However, recent scientific scrutiny has challenged many popular viral claims.

While apple cider vinegar isn't the cure-all that internet claims suggest, it does offer some promising health benefits. Various types of vinegar, including apple cider, balsamic, and red wine, contain B vitamins and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support overall health. However, excessive intake can lead to negative effects like tooth erosion, digestive issues, and interactions with medications.

A notable example occurred when a study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health in March 2024 gained international attention for claiming that consuming apple cider vinegar with the mother could deliver dramatic weight loss results. The study was officially retracted by BMJ Group’s integrity team this year due to the discovery of questionable statistical methods and multiple data errors. Most significantly, the independent team was unable to repeat the original results.

BMJ Group Retracts Previous ACV Study

A study published in March 2024 in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health immediately gained international attention after headlines and social media posts went viral. The clinical trial made bold claims about apple cider vinegar’s role in supporting rapid weight loss suggesting that drinking small amounts of ACV daily could help both overweight and obese people to shed unwanted pounds more quickly. However, within months of its initial publication, serious concerns began emerging around the study’s statistical methodologies.

A study suggesting apple cider vinegar helps with weight loss has been retracted by BMJ Group, as of September 2025, after experts uncovered major flaws in its data and methodology. BMJ Group advises journalist and others to stop referencing a study that once suggested drinking small amounts of apple cider vinegar each day could support weight loss in people who are overweight or obese.

Dr. Helen Macdonald - Ethics & Content Editor at BMJ Group

Despite this flawed study's dramatic claims, the truth about apple cider vinegar lies somewhere between miracle cure and complete myth. While ACV isn't the health revolution many claim it to be, it's not snake oil either. The real benefits likely come from the active ingredient present, not just in apple cider vinegar, but in other varieties like red wine and balsamic vinegars. Acetic acid can slow gastric emptying and reduce appetite, naturally leading to reduced calorie intake similar to, but to a lesser degree than popular GLP-1 medications.

What the "mother" is and what it’s not...

While the mother does contain probiotics and enzymes, most of apple cider vinegar's health benefits come from acetic acid, which is present in both filtered and unfiltered versions. Acetic acid is responsible for ACV's antimicrobial properties, its potential to improve insulin sensitivity, and its ability to support blood sugar control. That said, nutrition experts often recommend choosing raw, unfiltered ACV simply because it's less processed and the high heat used in pasteurization of vinegars can destroy beneficial bacteria and enzymes.

Whether you choose ACV with or without the mother, it's important to use it safely. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, which means consuming too much or drinking it undiluted can damage tooth enamel, irritate your throat, or upset your stomach. While apple cider vinegar gets most of the attention, other types of vinegar, such as balsamic, red wine, or malt vinegar, can also offer health benefits. As a general rule, the darker the vinegar, the more plant-based polyphenol antioxidants it contains.

Health Benefits of Dietary Vinegar

Dietary vinegar is a fermented liquid that is packed with nutrients, including amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that support overall health and wellness. Regardless of your choice, they all contain the same active ingredient. This means you can enjoy similar advantages from any variety, from artisanal-aged balsamic to simple white vinegar. Many people report that adding a tablespoon of diluted vinegar to their daily routine supports but health by reducing bloating and improving overall digestion.

• Blood Sugar Control: Research suggests that consuming a small amount of vinegar at bedtime can help lower fasting blood sugar levels the next morning. Another effective approach involves taking one to two tablespoons of diluted vinegar before meals containing starches.
• Weight Control: Vinegar's weight loss benefits stem from its ability to slow gastric emptying, keeping food in your stomach longer. This extended satiety helps reduce annoying food cravings and naturally decreases calorie intake throughout the day.
• Antioxidant Effects: Balsamic, apple cider and red wine vinegars stand out as especially rich sources of polyphenols, which are plant-based antioxidants that protect against unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and inflammation throughout the body.
• Heart Health: Recent research suggests that vinegar may offer significant benefits for heart health. Studies indicate that regular vinegar consumption can help reduce total cholesterol, LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and triglyceride levels while potentially increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol.
• Digestive Health: The health benefits of consuming vinegar extend beyond antioxidant protection. Dietary vinegars may also support gut health by promoting a balanced microbiome, which can enhance nutrient absorption and provide additional metabolic benefits.

Remember, dietary vinegar isn't a miracle cure, but it is a flavorful, nutritious addition that can support metabolic and cellular health. As a healthy addition to your diet, use in moderation. For most people, consuming one to two tablespoons daily is safe, but it's important to always dilute it in water. A common method is to mix it into a large glass of water, and to protect your tooth enamel from the high acidity, follow up with an extra glass of water to rinse your mouth. Overconsumption can lead to potential side effects, including low potassium.

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The secret behind dietary vinegar's health-promoting properties is its high concentration of acetic acid. This powerful compound slows gastric emptying which can reduce appetite and daily food intake. Improved stomach acidity from vinegar also helps your body absorb essential minerals like calcium and iron more efficiently. Metabolic Research Center has been helping people improve their metabolic health for decades. Take our 2-minute quiz to “Find Your Fit” and you’ll receive an instant download for our FREE Kickstart Guide that includes meal planning, recipes and much more.