Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made with crushed fermented apples, yeast, and sugar. It is commonly used for salad dressings, pickles and marinades. For many years, people have used it to prevent heartburn and reduce blood sugar levels. It also contains the same nutrients as apple juice including B vitamins and antioxidants known as the polyphenols. How Is It Made?It is made through fermentation. The apples are first crushed and yeast is added to speed up the fermentation process. This way the sugar converts into alcohol. The natural bacteria then break the alcohol down into acetic acid, which gives vinegar its tangy taste. Many people believe that apple cider vinegar helps with weight loss, but is it the case?A study showed that consuming one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar a day has helped people follow a reduced-calorie diet and lose a few extra kilos. However, the study was short-term and only studied 39 people for 12 weeks. It did not record what the subjects ate, their diets or if exercise was part of their schedule. Some researchers think that acetic acid might be the key to speed up metabolism. However, there is not enough data to prove it. Harvard Health Publishing pointed out that the scientific evidence to support vinegar as a long-term solution for weight loss is not strong. Another study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health points out that over four to 12 weeks, daily apple cider vinegar consumption has been found to reduce body mass index, weight, body fat, waist and hip measurements, fasting blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. However, Katherine Zertasky, a dietician with the Mayo Clinic writes: "Apple cider vinegar is not likely to be effective for weight loss." There is little scientific support for its weight loss claims, studies also do not have consistent results.Some researchers have found that acetic acid has made people nauseated which caused them to eat less. While some studies do suggest that it lowers the total cholesterol levels and increases the "good" cholesterol. There is yet no conducive evidence, suggest experts.Does It Reduce Belly Fat?While the study of 39 people did not a decrease in their visceral adiposity index, an estimate of how much deep-belly fat the body contains. This visceral fat surrounds the organs in your belly. However, the study size was too small to have a conducive answer. Is It Safe To Use?While apple cider vinegar is safe to use in moderation, its highly acidic nature may irritate one's throat if drunk often or in large quantities. Experts also suggest seeking a doctor's advice before consuming apple cider vinegar in case the person is on certain supplements, drugs or insulin.