Apple cider vinegar can boost your electrolytes, energy, and hydration when served as the old-fashioned drink
Vinegar has ions in it that are capable of transferring charge (It is an electrolyte - a solution with ions in it that can transfer a current through it).
Apple cider vinegar helps rebalance your system by sending a dose of electrolytes to the bloodstream. This keeps your muscles running smoothly so you can hit those PRs. If you take ACV after your run, it can also help replenish the electrolytes you've sweated out.
It's anti-microbial and kills the bacteria which thrive in your mouth overnight and cause that nasty morning breath. Drinking apple cider vinegar first thing in the morning is also thought to have a 'detoxifying' effect on the digestive system when the stomach is empty of food.
People with digestive issues, low potassium levels, or diabetes should consider speaking to a doctor before consuming apple cider vinegar. Anyone who experiences severe side effects should consult a medical professional.
Vinegar is fine to use on food and when mixed with water, juice, or another liquid is safe to drink. However, with a pH between 2.4 and 3.3, vinegar is acidic enough to erode tooth enamel, inflame the esophagus and stomach, and trigger nausea and acid reflux.
Vinegar is a weak acid and ammonia is a weak base which means that only a portion of the molecules will dissociate into ions, while some remain as molecules. This makes them weak electrolytes, and they will produce a dimmer light because there are fewer ions in solution.
In truth, vinegar, even the best kind, has a detrimental effect on the body and is best avoided if you are trying to cleanse your body in order to heal a chronic illness, symptom, or condition. “Vinegar dehydrates the body on a deep, deep organ level, and when you're cleansing, you don't want to dehydrate the body.
Honey also contains trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, amino acids and flavonoids, says Jenny Friedman, a Philadelphia-based registered dietitian.
Citric acid is found in lemon juice. Citric acid is an electrolyte because it dissolves in water and transmits electricity. However, the citric acid in lemon juice is a weak electrolyte.
Best Overall: Gatorade
The levels of electrolytes (sodium and potassium) are moderate and sensible with 160 mg of sodium and 45mg of potassium per 12 fluid ounce serving. You can also find Gatorade varieties with higher sodium, zero sugar or no calories depending on your needs.
Salt can be added to water in small amounts to increase electrolyte levels. Most people know that salt contains sodium, but it actually also contains the minerals potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
In general, however, it usually takes about two hours for your body to rehydrate fully after drinking a significant amount of water. As for how you should rehydrate, water is the best choice. Sports drinks, such as Gatorade, can be helpful for athletes who need to replenish electrolytes.
The fermented juice may slow down the emptying of your stomach and prevent spikes in the blood sugar level. ACV consumption has also been proven beneficial in increasing insulin sensitivity. Drinking that concoction particularly at night can be more beneficial than having it any other time of the day.
While there is no scientific evidence to suggest that taking ACV in the morning is more beneficial than doing so at any other time of the day, it can boost your digestion. As soon as you wake up in the morning, have ACV that is diluted in lukewarm or room temperature water on an empty stomach.