Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements: Limited Evidence for Health Benefits
There is no clear evidence that apple cider vinegar supplements are effective for weight loss or other health benefits, and current guidelines explicitly recommend against relying on dietary supplements for metabolic health improvements. 1, 2
Evidence Against Supplement Use
The strongest guideline evidence demonstrates that dietary supplements, including apple cider vinegar products, lack convincing support for health benefits:
Most trials evaluating dietary supplements for weight loss are of low quality and at high risk for bias, with high-quality published studies showing little or no weight loss benefits. 1, 2
Current evidence does not support use of dietary supplements to duplicate the cardioprotective benefits of healthful foods, as supplements have demonstrated little cardiovascular benefit and certain supplements may even be harmful. 1
No clear evidence exists that herbal or botanical supplements are effective for obesity management or weight loss. 1, 2
Specific Concerns with Apple Cider Vinegar Products
Apple cider vinegar supplements present unique quality and safety issues:
Considerable variability exists between brands in tablet size, pH, component acid content, and label claims, with doubt remaining whether apple cider vinegar is actually an ingredient in evaluated products. 3
Inconsistency and inaccuracy in labeling, recommended dosages, and unsubstantiated health claims make it easy to question product quality. 3
Esophageal injury has been reported from apple cider vinegar tablet use. 3
Recent Research Findings (Context Only)
While recent research studies suggest potential modest benefits, these findings must be interpreted cautiously:
A 2025 meta-analysis found small reductions in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference with liquid apple cider vinegar consumption (30 mL/day for up to 12 weeks), but acknowledged the need for more high-quality studies. 4
Individual trials have shown some metabolic improvements, but a 2020 systematic review concluded that evidence for health effects of apple cider vinegar is insufficient due to inadequate research of high quality. 5
Evidence-Based Alternatives
Instead of supplements, focus on proven interventions for weight management and metabolic health:
Structured lifestyle programs with ≥16 counseling sessions in 6 months, focusing on nutrition changes, physical activity, and behavioral strategies to achieve a 500-750 kcal/day energy deficit. 1, 2
Regular physical activity of 200-300 minutes per week for weight maintenance. 1, 2
Consumption of whole fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and other plant-based foods rather than supplements, as food is the best source of beneficial compounds. 1
FDA-approved medications (GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide or dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists like tirzepatide) for patients with diabetes and overweight/obesity who require pharmacotherapy. 2
Clinical Bottom Line
Apple cider vinegar supplements should not be recommended for weight loss or metabolic health improvements. The evidence base is insufficient, product quality is questionable, and proven alternatives exist. If patients insist on trying apple cider vinegar, liquid forms may be preferable to tablets given safety concerns, but expectations should be managed regarding limited evidence of benefit. 3, 5