Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a healthy pantry staple with benefits. It is commonly used in cooking, food preservation and as a home remedy due to its various potential health benefits. It is sometimes sold unpasteurized and unfiltered, retaining the “mother,” which consists of strands of nutrients, enzymes and beneficial bacteria that settle at the bottom of the bottle. Unfiltered apple cider vinegar has cloudy sediments, whereas a filtered bottle is clear. If you are shopping for apple cider vinegar, make sure to buy raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar that contains the mother. The cloudy settlement has many nutritional properties like natural probiotics and antioxidants.1

Apple cider vinegar has been used for thousands of years worldwide as a remedy for various health related issues, such as cough, infections, inflammation and burns.2 But what are the scientifically proven apple cider vinegar benefits? You may be surprised at the extent of ways apple cider vinegar can contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Learn everything you need to know about apple cider vinegar, its science-backed benefits, easy ways to incorporate ACV into your diet, tasty recipes and common FAQs.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is produced in a naturally occurring two-step fermentation process. First, whole apples are crushed to extract the juice. Then, the first fermentation occurs when bacteria and yeast transform the sugars into alcohol. After that, the second fermentation converts the alcohol into acetic acid, which is vinegar. Acetic acid gives apple cider vinegar its sour taste and distinctive aroma. This step creates a “mother,” which is made of bacteria and yeast. Finally, water is added to the mix to dilute the apple cider vinegar to 5% acidity.3

Despite its potential benefits, it is essential to use apple cider vinegar in moderation. Excessive consumption may lead to some side effects such as tooth enamel erosion and irritation of the throat and digestive tract.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar’s potential benefits may positively affect your body inside and out. Plus, it is generally affordable, with the price depending on brand, quality and quantity.

Frequently touted benefits of ACV include:

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Weight Loss

ACV has been linked to weight management and weight loss due to its appetite-suppressing properties,4 As part of a healthy diet and exercise plan, consuming a few tablespoons of ACV daily may help you with your weight loss goals.

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Blood Sugar Management

Consuming a tablespoon or two of ACV can help decrease blood sugar levels after meals.5 Although not a replacement for diabetes medication, ACV has the potential to be beneficial as a complementary treatment for lowering blood sugar.

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Hair Treatment

ACV can be used as a hair cleanser and conditioner, riding the scalp of other hair products and leaving hair soft and shiny.6 It is an economical solution for an at-home hair treatment and may even help with dandruff.

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Digestive Support

Raw, unfiltered ACV contains probiotics, which are “good” bacteria that can aid with digestive issues such as occasional constipation7. Because ACV is acidic, it may help increase stomach acid levels and help relieve bloating, though this claim has not been proven8.

Depending on what you’re trying to accomplish, keep track of your daily ACV consumption and see if you notice any positive results. And, as with any home remedy or alternative treatment, it’s essential to use apple cider vinegar cautiously and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar

It is possible to drink too much apple cider vinegar and doing so may have adverse effects on your health. ACV is highly acidic, containing acetic acid and consuming excessive amounts can lead to various health issues. Here are some potential risks of drinking too much apple cider vinegar:

  • Gastrointestinal problems: The high acidity of ACV can irritate and damage the delicate lining of the esophagus, stomach and intestines, leading to heartburn, acid reflux and stomach upset.9
  • Tooth enamel erosion: Frequent consumption of ACV, especially in undiluted form, can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to dental problems and increased sensitivity.10
  • Low potassium levels: Consuming excessive amounts of ACV may lower potassium levels in the body, which can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue and other health issues.11
  • Interaction with medications: ACV can interact with certain medications, such as diuretics and insulin, potentially leading to adverse effects12.

To avoid these risks, it’s essential to use apple cider vinegar in moderation. Pay attention to how your body reacts to ACV and if you experience any adverse effects, discontinue its use and consult a healthcare professional.

The Science-Backed Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Learn more about the science-backed benefits of apple cider vinegar. Although apple cider vinegar has been used as a home remedy for hundreds of years, not all have scientific evidence to prove their efficacy. The scientific research on apple cider vinegar’s health benefits is ongoing and while some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on various health conditions.

However, some studies show promising benefits for a variety of ailments, a few of which we explore here.

ACV May Support Normal Cholesterol Levels

A recent study concluded that the consumption of apple cider vinegar decreases cholesterol levels.13 This effect is especially promising in helping treat cardiovascular disease, which is a leading cause of death worldwide.

ACV Helps Control Appetite

Apple cider vinegar consumption can decrease appetite, which is helpful for weight control.14 Adding ACV to your diet can be an easy way to pursue your weight loss health goals.

ACV is Rich in Antioxidants

Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is rich in antioxidants, which fight free radicals in your body and can even help prevent kidney stones.15 Indeed, some of ACV’s most exciting benefits include the prevention of health conditions by boosting the immune system response.

The Bulletproof Approach to Apple Cider Vinegar

Although apple cider vinegar can be easily incorporated in your diet, there are downsides to consuming it in its liquid form. For example, drinking undiluted ACV can destroy tooth enamel or even irritate your esophagus17 due to its high acidity. Plus, the strong taste is not for everyone. Luckily, there are alternatives, including our delicious apple cider vinegar gummies.

Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies

We’ve developed apple cider vinegar gummies to help you get all the benefits of ACV as a convenient, easy-to-take supplement. These keto ACV gummies are sugar-free and include other powerful science-backed ingredients like chromium picolinate and Brain Octane Oil. So why would you choose apple cider vinegar gummies instead of taking a few tablespoons of ACV?

The Delicious Apple Flavor

The taste of vinegar is not for everyone. Apple cider vinegar gummies taste like apples, which makes them easy to consume any time of day.

The Convenience

If you’re on the go, you may not have a bottle of apple cider vinegar at the ready. Apple cider vinegar gummies are especially great to pack when you’re traveling to stay on track with your wellness routine.

The Extra Benefits

Our sugar free ACV gummies not only include the potent benefits of apple cider vinegar, but we’ve added chromium picolinate, which may help with weight loss18 and Brain Octane Oil, which may contribute to better cognitive function.19

Our High Testing Standards and Quality Ingredients

We produce our apple cider vinegar gummies with the highest quality ingredients, using scientifically proven methods and third-party testing for efficacy. We look to peer-review journals and the latest research to choose our ingredients and dosages. We ensure that all our supplements, including ACV gummies, align with FDA regulations for composition, purity and strength.

Apple Vinegar Cider Recipes

Consuming apple cider vinegar doesn’t only mean drinking two tablespoons diluted in a glass of water. There are so many delicious and creative ways to incorporate ACV in your diet, both in drinks and food. Discover some of our favorite keto-friendly ACV recipes.

FAQs

Is it dangerous to consume too much ACV?

Consuming too much ACV daily (more than 2 tablespoons) can cause adverse reactions, like stomach irritation and tooth enamel decay. Monitor how your body reacts to ACV and discontinue use if you feel negative side effects. Remember to speak to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet.

Does apple cider vinegar interfere with medication?

Apple cider vinegar may interfere with some types of medication, such as insulin and diuretics.20 If you are taking medication, make sure to speak to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet.

How much apple cider vinegar should I take?

There is no clear consensus on the appropriate dosage, and it also depends on what you are taking it for. However, consuming as little as 1-2 tablespoons of ACV with water may be beneficial.21

How do I store apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is best stored away from direct sunlight, in a cabinet. You don’t need to keep it in the fridge.

How long is apple cider vinegar’s shelf life?

Once opened, apple cider vinegar is good for about two years.

Is it OK to drink with the mother or should I filter it out?

The mother in apple cider vinegar is full of good bacteria. It is fine to consume, and you don’t have to filter it out.

Is it better to drink ACV in the morning or before bed?

Although you can consume ACV any time of day, right before bedtime may not be ideal. Because it is highly acidic, some people may feel the effects of acid reflux when they lie down. Taking ACV as part of your morning routine can be an easy way to remember to take your daily dose.