Abstract
Background:
In recent years, apple cider vinegar has been singled out as an
especially helpful health remedy. It has
been widely used in various dosage forms in alternative medicine for several
conditions such as diabetes and obesity. In this study, the effect of apple
cider vinegar on blood glucose level has been evaluated. Methods: Intraperitoneal
(IP) injection of streptozocin 40 mg/kg/day for 4 days was used to induce
diabetes in mice. The mice were divided in six groups (n=10). Two
concentrations of 0.16% and 1.6% of apple cider vinegar were used in drinking
water for 21 days. Normal saline and acetic acid were used as negative controls
and glibenclamide by IP injection (5mg/kg) as positive control. For studying
any possible combination effects, 0.16% apple cider vinegar and glibenclamide
were used together. Also, the effects of apple cider vinegar on glucose tolerance
test and amylase serum concentration were evaluated. Results: Our results indicated
that apple cider vinegar in both concentrations was not effective after 3 days
of the start of its administration. However, on day 7 it reduced blood glucose
levels significantly and this was maintained on days 14 and 21. Glucose
tolerance test showed that apple cider vinegar was effective in lowering blood
glucose level after 60 minutes of glucose administration and this was
maintained up to 120 minutes. Also, in both concentrations significantly
reduced serum amylase levels 21 days after the start of its
administration. Conclusions: Therefore, in this study it
has been revealed that apple cider vinegar has considerable reducing effect on
blood glucose levels in diabetic mice. The mechanism of this action and its
significance remain to be elucidated in future investigations.