At 57, renowned Japanese manga artist Ami Shibata maintains a slim figure, but that wasn’t always the case. Years ago, she was 17 kilograms (37 lbs) heavier and struggled with health issues. Her secret to effective and lasting weight loss? A simple but powerful dietary change: apple cider vinegar-soaked nuts.
A natural approach to weight loss
Shibata, standing at approximately 1.55 meters (5’1”), once weighed 56 kilograms (123 lbs). She humorously recalled having “three layers of belly fat” that prevented her from seeing her feet. Determined to make a change, she began incorporating vinegar-pickled foods, including nuts, into her daily diet. To her surprise, not only did she successfully shed 17 kilograms, but her skin and overall health also improved dramatically.
Her favorites were vinegar-soaked almonds, peanuts, and walnuts, which she regularly consumed as snacks. Intrigued by their benefits, she stopped their intake for a month. The result? She felt fatigued, struggled to wake up in the morning, and noticed dullness in her complexion. When she resumed eating vinegar-soaked nuts, her energy levels rebounded, her hands and feet stopped being cold, and her skin regained its brightness.
Why vinegar-soaked nuts work
Many people may be concerned that nuts, which are high in fat and calories, could contribute to weight gain. However, research shows that nuts are rich in protein and dietary fiber, which help increase satiety and reduce overall calorie intake. Studies have even linked higher nut consumption to improved long-term weight management.
Additionally, vinegar is known for its metabolism-boosting properties. According to nutrition expert Sachiko Murakami, the acetic acid in vinegar stimulates the citric acid cycle, which facilitates the conversion of fats and sugars into energy. This not only aids in reducing fatigue, but also promotes fat breakdown, leading to effective weight loss. Furthermore, vinegar contains amino acids that help burn fat while enhancing skin metabolism, resulting in a more youthful glow.
How to make vinegar-soaked nuts
Want to try this superfood for yourself? Here’s an easy recipe to make your vinegar nuts at home:
Ingredients:
- 50-100 g of unsalted nuts (almonds, peanuts, or walnuts)
- 100 ml apple cider vinegar
- 15 g black sugar (or an alternative natural sweetener)
- 20 ml water (adjust according to your taste preference)
- A clean glass jar
Instructions:
- Heat the apple cider vinegar and black sugar in a pan until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Place the nuts in a clean glass jar and pour the vinegar mixture over them.
- Refrigerate for at least three days before consuming. The nuts will keep for up to a month.
For added flavor:
- Leave the skin on peanuts when pickling.
- Add cinnamon to almonds for extra warmth and spice.
- Include bay leaves when pickling walnuts for a subtle aromatic twist.
Beyond weight loss: Additional health benefits
Shibata isn’t the only one to experience the remarkable effects of vinegar nuts. Others have reported smoother digestion and weight loss. One woman in her 40s lost 5 kilograms (11 lbs) simply by adding them to her diet. As a manga artist, Shibata often suffered from lower back pain and shoulder stiffness — common occupational hazards. After incorporating vinegar nuts into her routine, she noticed significant improvements, likely due to enhanced blood circulation.
According to Dr. Michiya Igase, head of the Anti-Aging Preventive Medical Center at Ehime University Hospital, nuts help maintain youthful blood vessels, which is crucial for longevity. He recommends consuming around 25 g of nuts daily to prevent vascular aging and support weight management.
Additionally, the polyphenols found in the skins of peanuts, almonds, and walnuts have strong antioxidant properties. They help regulate bodily functions, combat oxidative stress, and improve circulation. High blood pressure specialist Dr. Yoshihiko Watanabe also suggests keeping the nut skins intact during pickling to maximize health benefits.
How to incorporate vinegar nuts into your diet
Shibata enjoys vinegar peanuts in the morning for an energy boost, while she snacks on vinegar almonds or pairs them with wine. She also uses vinegar walnuts as a cooking ingredient, crushing them over salads or serving them with pickled fish for a flavorful twist.
Since vinegar nuts are so delicious, it’s easy to overeat them. To maintain balance, Shibata sticks to this daily portion:
- 5 vinegar peanuts in the morning
- 7-8 vinegar almonds as a snack
- 3-5 vinegar walnuts in cooking
Each nut variety serves a unique purpose:
- Vinegar almonds: Aid in beauty and weight loss, thanks to their vitamin E content, which slows aging.
- Vinegar peanuts: Enhance vitality and boost energy, making them ideal during stressful work periods.
- Vinegar walnuts: Are essential for brain health and preventing cognitive decline, making them an excellent choice for those who drink alcohol frequently.
A natural hangover cure?
Shibata’s most surprising discovery was the ability of vinegar nuts to prevent hangovers. No matter how much she drank the night before, consuming vinegar nuts the following day left her feeling refreshed and free from hangover symptoms. Additionally, the leftover vinegar from pickling can be repurposed as a salad dressing or a marinade for meats, ensuring that none of its health benefits are wasted.
Final thoughts: A superfood worth trying
While vinegar nuts offer numerous health benefits, they may not be suitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, this simple yet effective dietary habit could be a game-changer for those looking to lose weight naturally, improve circulation, boost energy levels, and enhance skin health.
Ami Shibata’s journey demonstrates that the most straightforward solutions can sometimes be decisive. If you’re looking for a natural way to transform your health, why not try vinegar-soaked nuts?
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