ACV is generally safe when consumed in moderation — no more than 1 to 2 tablespoons (tbsp) daily. But drinking excessive amounts of ACV can decrease potassium to hazardous levels. ACV may interact with some medications (including diuretics, laxatives, and certain medications for diabetes and heart disease).
In most cases, ACV is relatively harmless, but there are some risks to be aware of. Consuming more than 1-2 tablespoons in a day can cause irritation of the esophagus, erode tooth enamel and most dangerously, decrease potassium levels.
However, aside from the aforementioned tooth enamel damage you could experience if you regularly drink it undiluted, large amounts of apple cider vinegar could cause nausea and indigestion in some people. It's also been linked with low potassium levels when taken for a long time in large quantities.
People who drink an excessive amount of undiluted apple cider vinegar may even experience swelling or burns inside their mouth. Dilution is the solution! Dilute apple cider vinegar in water before drinking; at least 5 to 10 parts water to every 1 part vinegar.
Is there any harm in trying vinegar, though? 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.
Ingesting ACV before you go to sleep might help you wake up with stable blood sugar. A study published in the Diabetes Care journal found that taking vinegar at bedtime moderates glucose concentration when you wake up.
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.
The use of vinegar has been shown to be harmful to the liver and to the kidneys. Vinegar is also an irritant to the central nervous system. Regular consumption of vinegar can cause low potassium levels and lower bone density. Studies have shown that vinegar contributes to Candida overgrowth.
Vinegar is not intended to be ingested in significant amounts and can cause stomach distress resulting in nausea and vomiting. If ingested by someone who has stomach ulcers, vinegar can worsen the symptoms instead of helping.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Incredible detoxification actions of ACV work to flush out the harmful toxins from the liver that hinders its normal functions. Studies discloses that regular intake of ACV promotes weight loss, diminishes cholesterol levels, lessen inflammation, and uplift the overall health of the liver.
Apple cider vinegar isn't likely to be effective for weight loss. Proponents of apple cider vinegar claim that it has numerous health benefits and that drinking a small amount or taking a supplement before meals helps curb appetite and burn fat. However, there's little scientific support for these claims.
The antibacterial properties of Apple cider vinegar can fight off pathogens that may harm your body. One of the key benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar on empty stomach is detoxification. It also boosts blood circulation, which may help the body remove toxins quickly.
Brushing the teeth right after gulping down ACV can wear away tooth enamel and lead to cavities and decay. Thus, it is best to wait for 30 minutes before you brush your teeth after having ACV.
Most research recommends a daily dosage of approximately 1–2 tablespoons of ACV, mixed in water. However, exact dosages vary according to the condition. Modest doses are generally safe to consume, though they may increase the risk of tooth enamel erosion.
How Fast Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help You Lose Weight? According to a study published in the Journal of Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, Apple Cider Vinegar can result in effective weight loss after three months (or 12 weeks).
Can You Drink Apple Cider Vinegar on an Empty Stomach? Yes, you can drink diluted apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach. In fact, it's the recommended way to take ACV. Just wait about 20 minutes or so after drinking apple cider vinegar to eat.
As a guide, take 1-2 teaspoons or 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per day mixed in a glass of water. How often? It is recommended to take it no more than twice a day to prevent side effects such as nausea and erosion of tooth enamel.
Balsamic vinegar
This is one of the healthiest and most nutritious varieties of vinegar. Also, the antioxidants available in this vinegar are known to lower chances of heart disease and cancer.
Since it's high in acid, apple cider vinegar could irritate your esophagus (the tube that connects your throat and stomach) if you drink it straight or drink too much of it. Undiluted ACV can also break down tooth enamel.
Dilute the apple cider vinegar in 1 c (240 ml) of water.
By itself, apple cider vinegar is extremely acidic and could harm your teeth and throat if taken alone. To prevent these risks, shake your bottle of ACV before measuring out 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml), pouring it in a glass, and adding 1 c (240 ml) of water.