It's a rich source of antioxidants called polyphenols, which help support your “good” gut bacteria. The acetic acid it contains is also antibacterial and antifungal, which explains why people have used vinegar to clean wounds as far back as the Ancient Greeks.
This acid may have a variety of health benefits. Raw apple cider vinegar also contains: Natural probiotics (friendly bacteria), which may help with your immune system and gut health. Antioxidants, substances that can prevent damage to your body's cells.
Drinking ACV right after a meal can delay digestion. Thus, it's best to have it before a meal or empty stomach to maximise its health benefits.
The bacterial content of apple cider vinegar means it is packed full of gut-friendly bacteria that help to support the microbiome that is your gut. These properties are thought to help balance the bacteria in your stomach, keeping harmful bacteria at bay.
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.
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.
An anti-inflammatory diet, regular exercise, good quality sleep, and probiotics are all strategies to put in place before trying antimicrobials or antibiotics to get rid of bad bacteria.
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.
"Technically apple cider vinegar is not a probiotic," integrative gastroenterologist Marvin Singh, M.D., tells mbg, "but it should be considered a probiotic food." Probiotic foods or drinks describe any edible item that's been fermented to contain healthy bacterias.
A thick, gelatinous layer is formed by the acetic acid bacteria on the surface of the vinegar. This layer is known as 'The Mother' because it is the catalyst that gives rise to the vinegar.
Which is better? Both apple cider vinegar and lemon water can be of some benefit your gut, though neither is likely to perform miracles – so it really comes down to personal preference. However, if you're just starting out, lemon water may be the way to go.
The shelf life of apple cider vinegar is two years unopened, and one year once you've broken the seal on the bottle. You don't have to refrigerate apple cider vinegar once it's opened. Instead, store it in a pantry or cabinet, away from direct sunlight. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic.
After eating or drinking something with apple cider vinegar in it, rinse your mouth out really well with water. This will reduce the amount of vinegar that sits on your enamel. Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily.
Drinking apple cider vinegar in the morning is great for detoxification. Add a tablespoon of ACV in a glass of water and have it before each meal. Do this regularly to help cleanse your liver and detoxify your body.
Apple cider vinegar rising into your esophagus may lead to uncomfortable burning in your chest. Taking apple cider vinegar earlier in the day may be a better option.
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.
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.
There is no scientific evidence that apple cider vinegar is an effective anti-inflammatory agent in humans or that it can help treat arthritis symptoms.