Apple cider vinegar isn't likely to cause weight loss. Research hasn't proved that this fermented juice made from crushed apples helps people slim down.

Some people claim that apple cider vinegar has many healthy effects, such as weight loss. They say that drinking a small amount or taking a supplement before meals helps control hunger and burn calories.

But little research exists to support this claim. Experts haven't found meaningful weight loss or long-term hunger control with use of apple cider vinegar. And many of the studies of apple cider vinegar and weight loss have been small or lacking in other ways. Some small studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may have promise as a weight-loss aid. But more research is needed.

Most people can use commercial apple cider vinegar safely in small amounts. Some studies suggest that it's okay to have up to two tablespoons a day. Research shows that people have used it safely for up to 12 weeks. You might be less likely to have side effects if you add apple cider vinegar to food rather than drink it.

Use of apple cider vinegar does have some risks. For example:

• Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic. It may irritate your throat if you drink it often or in large amounts. Over time, acidic drinks also can weaken the outer layer of teeth, called enamel. In supplement form, an apple cider vinegar tablet that gets stuck in your throat may cause long-lasting pain. This also is due to the acid in the vinegar.
• Apple cider vinegar may affect some medicines. These include common high blood pressure treatments called diuretics and the diabetes medicine called insulin. Apple cider vinegar also may affect supplements such as licorice and horsetail. When apple cider vinegar affects these medicines and supplements, levels of a key mineral in the body called potassium may become low. The body needs potassium for nerve and muscle cells to work properly.

Keep in mind that weight loss takes time and effort. Using a trendy drink or a supplement alone won't help you reach your weight goal. The key is to burn more calories than you take in from food and drinks. So focus on eating a balanced diet and getting more physical activity. If you're not active now, you can ask your healthcare professional to help you get started.