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5 reasons to never drink apple cider vinegar

5 reasons to never drink apple cider vinegar Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Author: Maria Kholina

Apple cider vinegar is often used in cooking, and some apply it for medicinal purposes. However, a dietitian says that drinking this vinegar is strictly not recommended.

Read below about why apple cider vinegar should not be consumed and what the potential consequences are.

Apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach

Currently, the internet is full of recommendations for consuming this product as a preventive measure to address gastrointestinal issues, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.

Dietitian and gastroenterologist Yana Muzyra explains that some studies suggest apple cider vinegar may help strengthen health.

“Lowers” blood sugar

There are a few studies indicating that taking apple cider vinegar with meals may slightly lower glucose levels.

However, this is not enough to prevent or control diabetes; it's essential to maintain a healthy diet and exercise plan.

“Treats” heartburn and increases acid levels (for hypochlorhydria)

Many people use this remedy to relieve their condition and improve digestion, noting positive changes.

But there is no scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness, so it is not advisable to use this as a treatment method.

“Aids” in weight loss

It was once believed that acetic acid could help burn more fat and affect hormones that regulate appetite. This is not true, and there are no studies to support this claim.

Health risks

Damages tooth enamel

The doctor explains that acetic acid can damage tooth enamel, and in undiluted form, it can also lead to burns in the mouth and esophagus.

Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, and bloating.

Hypokalemia

If you already have low potassium levels, vinegar consumption can worsen your condition. It may also interact with certain medications, such as diuretics, laxatives, and insulin.

People with kidney problems should avoid drinking apple cider vinegar, as their kidneys cannot handle such high acidity levels.

It's better to use apple or balsamic vinegar as a base for dressings, marinades, and sauces.

This solution should not be consumed in concentrated form, as it contains acids that can irritate the esophagus.

Importantly, if symptoms like heartburn, bloating, or stomach pain occur, it's best to consult a doctor.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.