Apple cider vinegar has 21 kcal per 100 g – nearly calorie-free. A meta-analysis (Shishehbor et al., Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2017) found vinegar reduces post-meal glucose (SMD −0.60, P = 0.01) and insulin (SMD −1.30, P < 0.001). A tablespoon (15 ml) before meals delivers this benefit at just 3 calories.
How should I track Vinegar, apple cider?
Small amounts of Vinegar, apple cider add up faster than most people realize. A systematic review (Whitton et al., Adv Nutr 2022) found that condiments are among the most frequently omitted items in food logs — skipped 1–80% of the time. A tablespoon of mayo or dressing can add 50–100 calories, and most people use two or three tablespoons without measuring. The fix is simple: keep a teaspoon or scale near your plate and measure once. Sauces and dressings are often the hidden reason a "healthy" salad ends up at 600+ calories.