Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 7/1/2011

Question
there is a lot of statements on internet that if you take internally apple cider vinegar raw it will decrease your blood sugar.is this a fact or rumors.my problem is i am alleregic to sulphur/and there is sulphur in apple cider vinegar.what is your opion of taking it for diabetes and will the sulphur in it cause a reaction?

Answer
Hello,
Apple cider vinegar on its own may help improve digestion, because it stimulates your digestive system to produce enzymes and stomach acid when taken before or with meals.  That may help indirectly with blood sugar regulation, but there's no mechanism for it to directly lower blood sugar.  It will likely be safe and helpful for people with blood sugar issues if done in conjunction with other changes such as a low glycemic diet, exercise, and possibly supplements, but it's not likely to do enough on its own.  In addition, if you do have blood sugar issues it's always recommended to discuss this with your naturopathic doctor or personal physician before making any changes to your regime.  Sulfur is a naturally occurring compound in many foods so it can't be completely avoided, but if you are allergic to it it's best to avoid anything with a high sulfur content (I do not know specifically how much sulfur is in the vinegar, so I cannot comment on whether it would be safe for you).  
In health,
Dr Conner