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Baking soda and apple cider vinegar for weight loss – Can these two most commonly used ingredients in food preparation and natural remedies be used for weight loss purposes?
Interestingly, there have been several testimonials of people claiming to have managed to lose weight steadily and noticed considerable improvements in health.
Although, the health benefits of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and apple cider vinegar consumed separately and combined are indisputable, the weight loss aspect still needs more scientific back-up.
It is no secret that from time to time we should detox our body to restore its health and energy, and remove the harmful substances.
To do that, baking soda and apple cider vinegar are often used and many believe that effective body cleanse can help you shed some extra fat including belly fat.
If you are wondering whether the baking soda and apple cider vinegar drink for weight loss is worth your time check out our useful guide full of helpful information, weight loss tips and recipes.
Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss – How Does it Work?
Consuming 1/2 teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate combined with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before your meal will help reduce appetite.
Apple cider alone is capable to promote weight loss. It contains acetic acid that, according to some studies, raises the number of certain enzymes, which in turn accelerate the fat burning process.
As apple cider vinegar is extremely acidic (pH=4.2), drinking it mixed with water alone, can have a disastrous effect on your teeth enamel.
Baking soda, on the other hand, is an expert in regulating the acidity in apple cider vinegar, and thus your weight loss effort will not compromise your dental health.
Since the reduced appetite and improved metabolism are two important factors that affect weight loss, you could assume that the apple cider vinegar and baking soda drink is quite effective.
However, people who have achieved positive weight loss results when consuming this drink often have combined it with moderate exercise and a balanced diet.
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- Omni Diet Ultimate Guide to Lose 12 Pounds in 2 Weeks
Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar For Weight Loss – How Much You Should Have
As there are no science-backed studies showing the exact amount of baking soda and apple cider vinegar drink for losing weight, the most important advice is to not overdo it.
Too much acidity in your body may have dreadful side effects and put your health at risk.
Yet there are approximated safe amounts determined by health experts, who tried this cocktail themselves. One of them claims that she managed to lose 20 pounds in just three months.
The drink consisted of 1/2 tsp of baking soda, 2 Tbs of apple cider vinegar and about 120 ml of water. Mix the soda and apple cider vinegar and let it rest a little, then add the water.
The taste is bitter and unpleasant, so be prepared to take a sip of water after this drink.
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When to drink?
The recommended time for consuming baking soda and apple cider vinegar mixture is 1 hour before your meals, 1-3 times per day. Every week you should take 2 days off and drink the cocktail during the other 5 days consecutively.
The expert applied this method for three months and has achieved positive results.
If taking this potion 3 times a day is too much or you cannot stand the taste, you can start with drinking once a day before your meal and then add more if you feel the need.
If you have any digestive condition, you should ask your doctor first before consuming the mixture.
Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar Health Benefits
According to many people who have consumed this drink, apart from weight loss effect, baking soda and apple cider vinegar has a variety of health benefits as well.
Check out how baking soda and apple cider vinegar may improve health:
Increased metabolism
This is probably the biggest advantage, as digestive problems such as heartburn, stomach pain, indigestion, etc. greatly affect the overall health of the body.
The essential nutrients and enzymes in the drink help to process the food faster and better absorb nutrients.
According to this study, Vinegar showed an effect on carbohydrate metabolism besides it slows the digestion of the complex carbohydrates so it makes you feel full for a longer period.
Cleared up skin problems
Dehydration and acidity may cause skin problems like dry skin, acne, inflammation, and other issues. Drinking baking soda can eliminate these problems and give you your dream skin as it promotes the spleen to produce an anti-inflammatory environment according to this study.
It also can be used locally for the removal of skin grease and pain of patients with central venous catheters and acts as a local ulceration antidote.
Cured cold and flu
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar are well-known for treating common cold symptoms like congestion, sore throat, cough, etc. by eliminating the mucus and raising the immunity of the body.
Relieved arthritis pain
Joint pain can be a major issue limiting mobility, especially for elderly people. Baking soda and apple cider vinegar help decrease arthritis-related pain and inflammation. Even when you consume only twice per day, you will still remain well-hydrated for the day.
Lower blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity
Insulin plays a crucial role in the body. Whenever you consume a high-carb meal, a large amount of insulin is produced to dissolve the sugar and use it for energy.
It is different in the case of people suffering from diabetes. Their body fails to secrete a sufficient amount of insulin, which increases the blood sugar level.
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar tonic is a great option for regulating the blood sugar spikes and controlling the appetite. The glucose is well-absorbed in the body and is used for energy.
This study showed that the effect of vinegar intake from 8 to 12 weeks showed a reduction in HbA1c by at least 0.14 percentage points.
No urinary infections
The baking powder is effective in preventing problems regarding the urinary system; the urinary tract remains clean and the urine acidity stays within its normal range.
The kidneys may also benefit from this drink, as the risk of kidney stones as well as liver or gallbladder stones is significantly lower.
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Improved gut microbiome
As apple cider vinegar is produced during a fermentation process, it has the potential to boost your gut bacteria with the help of certain probiotics.
When bacteria ferment the apple cider, it raises the acetic and acid content in it. As a result, around 100 different microorganisms grow in ACV. The majority of these species contain probiotics that are beneficial for humans. These probiotics are essential for gut flora, as your body is able to remove the harmful bacteria and other toxins for the digestive system.
Reduced oxidative stress
Oxidative stress results from active free radicals, which may cause faster aging, destabilized cell function and even cancer. Due to the tonic’s antioxidant properties, your body becomes better protected.
Improved Candida amount control
Candida is the name of a harmful yeast that may overgrow in the gut and cause serious autoimmune adverse effects. So, regular consumption of apple cider vinegar allows your body to fight against candida and other microbes because of its anti-fungal activity according to this study.
Higher energy level
If you drink baking soda and apple cider vinegar before exercising, it will have the same effect as drinking coffee and you will have more energy.
Low cost
Both baking soda and apple cider vinegar are inexpensive ingredients and can be easily found at any store.
What Happens When You Drink Vinegar and Baking Soda?
Consuming baking soda and apple cider vinegar both combined or separately has various effects on the body.
Baking soda helps relieve acid reflux, indigestion and upset stomach symptoms.
Apple cider vinegar regulates the blood sugar and insulin levels. It can be useful for people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Reduced insulin intolerance and blood sugar may also help to fight heart diseases.
As the tonic contains sulfur, the toxins in the body get flushed away, which has a positive effect on your liver.
Plus, if you often overeat, drinking the mixture before your meal will result in consuming around 200 calories fewer than usual.
Not to mention that your gut flora will be improved and whatever you consume will be efficiently digested and absorbed. If previously you had constipation, the drink serves as a perfect natural remedy for relieving it.
Also, other issues like belly bloat will be reduced.
Calcium is better absorbed when you consume apple cider vinegar resulting in stronger bones.
Can You Drink Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda Together?
Consuming baking soda and apple cider vinegar together is safe.
Drinking baking soda alone may help to relieve heartburn. However, the main nutrients, minerals, enzymes, and vitamins are concentrated in the apple cider vinegar, which makes it a needed ingredient for more enhanced weight loss results.
Side Effects of Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda
Like anything else, baking soda and apple cider vinegar for weight loss may have side effects when overused.
Every one of us may have a different reaction, so pay attention to any warning signs from your body. Adverse reactions may include stomach pain, excessive thirst, diarrhea, etc.
Tips and advice on consuming baking soda and apple cider vinegar for weight loss
- Never drink baking soda on a full stomach.
- Read the package instructions on baking soda, and never consume more than allowed.
- Drink baking soda before a workout and you will exercise longer and experience less fatigue.
- Apple cider vinegar is a product of the yeast fermentation process. Hence you might often notice the “mother” bacteria at the bottom. It is said that the “mother” contains more enzymes and minerals, therefore try to pick an apple cider vinegar with “mother”.
- You can use cayenne pepper or add a little bit of honey to the tonic for better taste. Also, you can eat a slice of orange or pineapple after you drink the mixture to remove the unpleasant taste in your mouth.
- Combine the drink with a healthy diet for more enhanced results. As there is no scientific proof that the baking soda tonic alone helps to lose weight, it might be a good idea to combine it with a balanced diet.
Who should not drink baking soda and apple cider vinegar?
- People who have any digestive conditions such as stomach ulcer
- Pregnant or nursing women should not consume tonic.
- Children
- You should consult your doctor if you take any prescription drugs before drinking baking soda and apple cider vinegar for weight loss
Baking Soda Recipe
Baking soda with lemon juice
- 250-500 ml of water (room temperature)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 30 ml of lemon juice
Mix the ingredients together and drink on an empty stomach before your meal.
Apple Cider Vinegar Recipe
Apple cider vinegar with lime
- 1/2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 500 ml of water (cold)
- 15 ml of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon stevia
Mix everything and you’re done!
Recommended reading:
- Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda For Belly Fat – How to Use Them
- How Long Does it Take to Lose 30 Pounds? Learn How To Calculate Any Weight
This content has been Fact-Checked by a Certified Nutritionist in our Publishing Team. Learn more here.