Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & How to Take It

This article is reviewed by an expert

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Throughout history, apple cider vinegar has been widely utilized as a home remedy for a multitude of ailments, ranging from sore throats to varicose veins. ^[1]

Apple cider vinegar, otherwise known as cider vinegar or ACV, is a type of vinegar made from cider or apple. ^[1] It is a fermented juice from crushed apples. ^[2]

Unpasteurized or organic ACV contains the mother of vinegar. Like apple juice, it contains some pectin, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, and vitamin B6, biotin, folic acid, niacin pantothenic acid, and vitamin C. ^[2]

In this blog post, we will explore the benefits, uses, side effects, and how to take ACV.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Improves Digestive Health

ACV is often for improving digestive health. ACV is known to reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion, and improves metabolism. ^[3]

2. Enables Detoxification

ACV is generally believed to boost the physiological state and function of vital organs in the body by acting as a detoxifying and purifying agent. ^[4]

3. Improves Heart Health

Research studies indicate that apple cider vinegar has the potential to decrease cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as other risk factors associated with heart disease by inhibiting the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). ^[5]

Additionally, some studies have demonstrated that it can regulate blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for heart and kidney problems. ^[1]

4. Weight Management

Apple cider vinegar can aid in weight loss. Various human studies have revealed that vinegar can enhance the feeling of fullness, reduce calorie intake, and increase metabolism, which aids in effective weight loss. ^[1]

5. Regulating Blood Sugar Levels

The most effective utilization of vinegar so far has been observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that apple cider vinegar can offer multiple advantages for blood sugar and insulin levels. ^[1]

Other Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar benefits are many. It acts as a natural toner for the skin, and helps improve digestion, and immune health without many side effects. ^[6]

Apple cider vinegar uses also include slowing and emptying the gastric processes. It also inhibits sucrase and other related enzymes, thereby slowing the digestion of complex carbohydrates and consequently flattening the peak of postmeal blood glucose. ACV intake has also been shown to improve the uptake of glucose by skeletal muscles. ^[7]

ACV can also be used in cooking as a seasoning or dressing. It can add a tangy flavor to salads, vegetables, and soups. However, it is important to note that excessive heating can destroy the beneficial enzymes and nutrients present in ACV.

Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar side effects, especially if consumed in excess. According to Ayurveda, excess consumption of ACV can aggravate the pitta dosha, which can lead to acidity, heartburn, and other digestive issues. It is recommended to consume ACV in moderation to avoid any adverse effects.

In a study that investigated the potential for ACV to control appetite, many participants reported feelings of nausea and indigestion after drinking ACV. 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.

Further, applying ACV means directly to the skin can cause burns and irritation, especially if the vinegar is undiluted. ^[1]

How to Consume Apple Cider Vinegar

The most common way of consuming ACV is by mixing it with water. It is recommended to have an apple cider vinegar drink by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of ACV in a glass of warm water and consuming it before meals.

FAQs 

Conclusion

In conclusion, ACV can be a beneficial home remedy for various health issues from an Ayurvedic perspective. It can help in improving digestion, detoxification, and weight management. However, it is important to consume ACV in moderation to avoid any adverse effects. ^[1]

Understanding your dosha type can also help in determining the right dosage and frequency of consuming ACV. Overall, ACV can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle in Ayurveda.

Disclaimer: This article is purely for informational purposes. It is recommended to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before incorporating ACV into your daily routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.

References

1. Apple Cider Vinegar; Health Benefits and unwanted effects
2. STUDY ABOUT THE NUTRITIONAL AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT
3. Effect of apple cider vinegar on delayed gastric emptying in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a pilot study
4. Protective role of apple cider vinegar (APCV) in CCl4-induced renal damage in wistar rats
5. Cider Vinegar
6. STUDY ABOUT THE NUTRITIONAL AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT
7. Diabetes Control: Is Vinegar a Promising Candidate to Help Achieve Targets?