Never do this: Endocrinologist debunks harmful health myth
Why you shouldn't drink vinegar to lower glycemia (photo: Freepik)
The myth that consuming vinegar before meals can help control glycemia has frequently circulated online. However, this "life hack" can cause serious harm to your health, so it's important to understand all its consequences.
RBC-Ukraine explains why drinking vinegar is dangerous to your life.
How myth originates
According to endocrinologist Olesia Pidmurniak, vinegar is not a panacea but a dangerous treatment method.
The doctor explained the myth about using vinegar to reduce glycemia, which arose from several studies. It was observed that consuming a small amount of vinegar before meals could lower postprandial (after-meal) glycemia.
This effect is due to acetic acid slowing gastric emptying, which delays the absorption of carbohydrates.
However, this effect is not constant, and its intensity varies greatly depending on an individual's body, the type of food, and the presence of underlying health conditions, among other factors.
"Vinegar does not treat diabetes, it does not replace insulin or other medications, and it definitely does not guarantee blood sugar control," added the endocrinologist.
Why drinking vinegar is dangerous
Stomach burns
Consuming concentrated vinegar can irritate or even burn the stomach lining, leading to gastritis or ulcers.
Risk of dehydration
Excessive vinegar consumption promotes potassium excretion from the body, affecting heart and muscle function.
Development of acid reflux
Acetic acid increases stomach acidity, which can cause heartburn or worsen reflux disease.
Effect on tooth enamel
Acetic acid gradually erodes enamel, potentially leading to tooth sensitivity and cavities.
How to control glycemia
Maintaining a balanced diet with a low glycemic index and engaging in regular physical activity is advisable.
Blood glucose levels can also be monitored using a glucometer.
Excess glucose is converted into glycogen or triglycerides for energy storage. Glucose is the most important source of metabolic energy for most cells, especially for some (such as neurons and red blood cells) that almost entirely depend on glucose levels.
The brain requires a relatively stable level of glycemia to function. Blood glucose concentrations below 3 mmol/L or above 30 mmol/L can result in unconsciousness, seizures, and coma.
Earlier, we reported that dry mouth can be a "signal" of these serious diseases.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
