Acetic acid – the main component of vinegar – is an irritant to the stomach and causes a loss of the protective mucus in the intestinal tract, setting the stage for ulcers, gastritis, vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamin B12), and/or infection with Heliobacter pylori.
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.
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.
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.
Unfiltered apple cider vinegar can optimize gut health and the microbiome as a whole. The enzymes and probiotics in ACV promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, and help to improve nutrient absorption and detoxification processes.
Consuming more than 1-2 tablespoons in a day can cause irritation of the esophagus, erode tooth enamel and most dangerously, decrease potassium levels. Those taking diuretics and/or insulin should consult their doctor before changing any dietary practices.
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.
Because of the acidity, drinking undiluted apple cider vinegar can also worsen symptoms in people with digestive problems, such as stomach ulcers or acid reflux.
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.
Always use raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar (ACV) that contains the “mother”. The “mother” is what is used to ferment the apples to make vinegar and contains prebiotics which feed the good bacteria in your gut resulting in a flatter belly and better digestion.
It Aids Weight Loss
Pectin in apple cider vinegar also plays a role in reducing your body's ability to absorb fat. Drinking it in the morning will improve digestion, which will reduce your hunger levels and help you achieve your weight loss goals.
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). People in this study dropped an average of 4 pounds by consuming 1 to 2 tablespoons of diluted apple cider vinegar every day.
Brushing your teeth right after consuming apple cider vinegar can wear away the tooth enamel. This can lead to cavities and tooth decay.
Low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia): Apple cider vinegar might lower potassium levels in the blood. If your potassium is already low, apple cider vinegar might make it too low. Don't use apple cider vinegar if you have this condition.
A low calorie drink
About 100 grams of apple cider vinegar has about 22 calories, which means it makes for a low-calorie drink that can help boost weight loss. Adding a tablespoon of ACV into a glassful of water and drinking first thing in the morning may help burn belly fat.
“The acidity in both the vinegar and carbonated drinks can weaken your enamel, making your teeth prone to staining, decay, and breakage,” says Rhonda Kalasho, DDS, founder of TruGlo Modern Dental in Beverly Hills, California.