Apple cider vinegar cures many illnesses
Apple cider vinegar has some limited, modest evidence for minor effects on blood sugar levels and weight, but widespread claims that it cures cancer, controls blood pressure, or serves as a general health tonic are not supported by science. A major study supporting weight loss claims was retracted in 2024.
What we know
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) contains acetic acid, which may slow gastric emptying and reduce post-meal blood glucose spikes. Several small studies suggest it can modestly lower fasting blood sugar and HbA1c in people with type 2 diabetes when combined with diet changes. These effects are real but small, and ACV should not replace medication or lifestyle changes.
Claims for ACV as a cure for cancer, a treatment for high blood pressure, a weight-loss miracle, and a general detox agent are not supported by robust human evidence. A 2024 study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health claiming dramatic weight loss (rivaling GLP-1 drugs) was retracted after independent reviewers found statistical errors and implausible results. The University of Chicago Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and Northwestern Medicine have each published public analyses noting that most ACV health claims are unsupported.
ACV is acidic and can erode dental enamel with frequent use, worsen acid reflux, and pose risks in people with chronic kidney disease. The McGill Office for Science and Society notes that popular interest in ACV has been fueled by influencer culture, anecdote, and historical folk medicine traditions rather than scientific evidence.
A systematic review in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found some evidence of effects on lipid profiles and glycemic markers, but study quality was consistently low and results were inconsistent. The overall picture is of a condiment with very modest metabolic effects at best, not a multi-purpose cure.
Common claims
- ACV cures or prevents cancerNo scientific evidence
- ACV dramatically aids weight lossKey study retracted; effect is small at best
- ACV lowers blood sugar modestlyWeak evidence, small effect
- ACV controls high blood pressureInsufficient evidence
Evidence hierarchy
All sources
- Debunking the health benefits of apple cider vinegarUChicago Medicine · 2018
- Apple Cider Vinegar AgainMcGill Office for Science and Society · 2025
- The effect of apple cider vinegar on lipid profiles and glycemic indicesBMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies · 2021
- Does Apple Cider Vinegar Really Improve Your Health?Northwestern Medicine · 2026
- Does apple cider vinegar have any proven health benefits?Harvard Health Publishing · 2021