Research suggests that apple cider vinegar may have beneficial health properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy. People have used it for centuries in cooking and natural medicine. It may have some health benefits.
However, little research exists, and further studies are needed before it can be recommended as an alternative therapy.
Acetic acid is vinegar’s primary active compound, giving it its strong sour smell and flavor. Researchers believe this acid is responsible for apple cider vinegar’s health benefits. Cider vinegars contain about 5% acetic acid.
Organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar also contains a substance called mother, which consists of strands of proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria that give the product a murky appearance.
Some believe the mother is responsible for most of its health benefits, although no studies support this.
While apple cider vinegar does not contain many vitamins or minerals, quality brands may contain some amino acids and antioxidants.
Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used vinegar to clean wounds more than 2,000 years ago.
Vinegar is also a food preservative. Research shows it inhibits bacteria like E. coli from growing in and spoiling food.
If you’re looking for a natural way to preserve your food, apple cider vinegar could help.
To date, one of the most convincing applications of vinegar is helping treat type 2 diabetes.
However, people without diabetes can also benefit from keeping their blood sugar levels in the typical range, as some researchers believe that high blood sugar levels are a major cause of aging and various chronic diseases.
A 2019 clinical trial suggests apple vinegar consumption may have beneficial effects on the glycemic index and oxidative stress in individuals with diabetes and dyslipidemia. A 2021 review of clinical trials also found that ACV consumption may benefit glycemic status in adults.
However, the findings should be interpreted with caution, as more extensive studies are still needed to better understand apple cider vinegar’s potential benefits. In fact, the National Centers for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says it’s important that people do not replace medical treatment with unproven health products.
Apple cider vinegar is generally recognized as safe. But if you’re taking blood-sugar-lowering medications, talk with a doctor before increasing your vinegar intake.
Several human studies show that vinegar can increase feelings of fullness. This can lead to eating fewer calories and losing weight.
One review of research noted that in short-term studies when participants consumed apple cider vinegar with a meal containing solid foods, they experienced appetite suppression for 120 minutes after the meal. They also snacked less for 3-24 hours after consuming the apple cider vinegar.
However, the longer-term studies they reviewed showed no relationship between apple cider vinegar and appetite suppression.
That said, another 2024 randomized control trial study showed significant reductions in weight (6-8 kg), body fat ratio, waist and hip circumferences, body mass index (BMI), blood sugar, as well as fats and cholesterol in the blood after daily consumption of 3 doses of apple cider vinegar (15 milliliters per tablespoon (mL/tbsp)) for 12 weeks. Larger studies are recommended to verify these findings.
Research suggests that vinegar could possibly improve some of them. But, many studies on apple cider vinegar’s benefits were conducted in animals, which may not reflect the benefits in humans.
A 2020 review of studies in both humans and animals noted that apple cider vinegar may potentially benefit levels of high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.
A 2021 review of research in humans found that apple cider vinegar may benefit total cholesterol levels.
However, both reviews pointed to limitations in the quality and size of research available to support these claims.
Some people use apple cider vinegar as a common remedy for skin conditions like dry skin and eczema.
The skin is naturally slightly acidic. But, it may be less acidic in people with eczema. Using diluted topical apple cider vinegar topically may help rebalance the skin’s natural pH, improving the protective skin barrier.
However, research doesn’t necessarily support this and warns that apple cider vinegar may actually irritate the skin in some people, especially people with skin conditions like eczema.
Talk with a doctor before trying new remedies, especially on damaged skin. Avoid applying undiluted vinegar to the skin, as it can cause burns.
The best way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your diet is to use it in cooking. It’s a simple addition to foods like salad dressings and homemade mayonnaise.
Some people also like to dilute it in water and drink it as a beverage. Standard dosages range from 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 mL) to 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 mL) per day mixed in a large glass of water.
It’s best to start with small doses and avoid taking large amounts. Too much vinegar can cause harmful side effects, including tooth enamel erosion and potential drug interactions.
Hey there, fam! If you’re draggin’ through your day, feelin’ like a zombie by 3 p.m., you’ve prolly wondered if there’s a magic potion to get you back in the game. Well, lemme ask ya—have you ever thought about apple cider vinegar (ACV)? Yup, that tangy stuff sittin’ in your kitchen cabinet. Word on the street is that drinkin’ this golden liquid can give you a lil’ energy kick. But does drinking apple cider vinegar give you energy for real, or is it just another health fad messin’ with us? Stick with me, ‘cause I’m gonna break it down in plain ol’ English, with all the deets you need to decide if this is your new go-to or a hard pass.
Spoiler alert: It ain’t gonna turn you into the Energizer Bunny overnight, but there’s somethin’ to it. ACV might help in a sneaky, roundabout way by keepin’ your energy levels from crashin’ hard after a sugar binge. Let’s dive deep into what this stuff is, why folks think it zaps you with pep, the science (or lack thereof), how to sip it without wreckin’ your teeth, and some other tricks if it ain’t your vibe.
What Even Is Apple Cider Vinegar, Anyway?
Before we get into the energy buzz, let’s chat about what we’re dealin’ with here. Apple cider vinegar is basically just fermented apple juice. They crush up apples, let the sugars turn into alcohol, and then into acetic acid—that’s the stuff that makes it taste like sour socks. It’s been around forever, used in cookin’ for salad dressings or marinades, but lately, it’s been hyped up as some kinda health elixir. You’ll find it in two main types: the filtered, clear kind and the raw, unfiltered stuff with a cloudy “mother” in it (that’s just funky bacteria and enzymes, don’t freak out).
Why’s this matter? ‘Cause the unfiltered kind is what most health nuts swear by They say it’s got more of the good stuff—potassium, enzymes, and even some amino acids—that might play a role in how you feel day-to-day. Me, I’ve got a bottle of the cloudy stuff in my pantry, and yeah, it looks weird, but I’ve tossed it into recipes before. Never thought it’d be my energy savior, though So, let’s see if it can really pull that off.
Does Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Give You Energy? The Quick Scoop
Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Does this stuff actually pump you up? Kinda but not in the way a double espresso does. Here’s the deal ACV ain’t never gonna give you that instant “whoa I’m awake!” jolt like caffeine. Instead, it’s more like a behind-the-scenes wingman. The buzz comes from its ability to mess with how your body handles sugar and digestion, which can stop those nasty energy dips that leave you face-plantin’ on your desk.
I’ve heard pals say they feel a bit more “steady” after sippin’ it for a few days, like they ain’t crashin’ after a big lunch. But others? They’re like, “Nah, I just taste vinegar and feel nothin’.” So, it’s a mixed bag. Let’s unpack why some folks feel a difference and why it might not be a game-changer for everyone.
The Science Behind the Hype: Why Might ACV Help with Energy?
Now, let’s get nerdy for a hot sec, but I promise to keep it simple. There’s a few reasons why people think ACV can get you feelin’ all peppy-like. I ain’t a scientist, but I’ve dug into this enough to lay it out for ya.
- Blood Sugar Stability Is Key, Y’all: One of the biggest ways ACV might help is by slowin’ down how fast your body turns carbs into sugar in your blood. That acetic acid in it acts like a speed bump, makin’ sure you don’t get a huge spike and then a brutal crash. When your blood sugar’s steady, you’re less likely to feel like a deflated balloon after eatin’ a donut. That means your energy stays more even-keel through the day.
- Gut Health Got Somethin’ to Do with It: Raw ACV’s got probiotics—good bacteria that chill in your gut. If your gut’s happy, it can talk to your brain better (yeah, there’s a whole gut-brain connection thing goin’ on). Some folks reckon that a healthier gut means less bloatin’ and maybe even a better mood, which can trick ya into feelin’ more energized.
- Potassium and Enzymes for the Win: ACV’s got a bit of potassium and some enzymes that act like natural electrolytes. If you’re low on these, especially after sweatin’ or just bein’ a hot mess, it might help balance things out and fight off that tired, draggy feelin’. Plus, there’s amino acids in there that could stop lactic acid from buildin’ up in your muscles—ya know, that burn after a workout that makes you wanna nap.
- No Sugar Cravings, No Slump: Some peeps notice they don’t crave sweets as much after takin’ ACV. Less sugar munchin’ means fewer ups and downs in your energy. I’ve tried it before a big meal, and weirdly, I didn’t wanna raid the cookie jar after. Might just be in my head, but hey, it worked!
But here’s the real talk: the science ain’t rock-solid yet. It’s more like, “Hey, this looks promisin’, but don’t bet your life on it.” A lotta the energy boost claims come from personal stories, not big fancy studies. So while it might help prevent fatigue for some, it ain’t a magic bullet.
My Take: Does It Work or Nah?
Lemme share a lil’ personal spin here. I decided to give ACV a whirl for a week, mixin’ a teaspoon or two in a glass of water before my biggest meal. First day, I’m thinkin’, “This tastes like I’m drinkin’ salad dressin’, ugh.” But I stuck with it. By day three, I noticed I wasn’t as bloated after eatin’ pasta, which usually turns me into a gas balloon. Did I feel like I could run a marathon? Heck no. But I didn’t get that usual mid-afternoon “I need a nap” vibe as hard on some days.
By the end of the week, I bumped it up to a couple tablespoons and yeah, my energy felt a tad more stable. No crazy sugar crashes after a sneaky dessert. But on days I barely slept ‘cause my dog wouldn’t stop barkin’ ACV didn’t save me. I was still a grumpy mess. So, for me, it’s more about keepin’ the lows less low, not givin’ me superhero vibes.
How to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Without Hatin’ Life
If you’re thinkin’ of tryin’ this out, don’t just chug it straight from the bottle. That’s a one-way ticket to hurtin’ your throat and messin’ up your teeth. Here’s how we do it right, fam:
- Dilute That Stuff: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of ACV in a big glass of water (like 8 ounces or more). Start small if your tummy’s sensitive. Some folks work up to 1-2 tablespoons a day, but ease into it.
- Use a Straw, Save Your Smile: ACV is acidic as heck, with a pH that can strip your tooth enamel if you ain’t careful. Sippin’ through a straw keeps it away from your pearly whites. Rinse your mouth with water after, just to be safe.
- Timing Matters, Kinda: Some swear by takin’ it first thing in the mornin’ for a metabolism kick, others before meals to help digestion and blood sugar. I like it before dinner ‘cause that’s when I pig out most. Play around and see what feels good.
- Mix It Up for Fun: Hate the taste? Toss in a dab of honey or a splash of lemon juice. Makes it less like you’re drinkin’ straight-up sour juice. I’ve even thrown it into a smoothie once—barely noticed it.
- Don’t Overdo It: Too much can mess with your stomach, givin’ ya bloating or worse. Stick to small doses and listen to your body. If it’s screamin’ “nope,” back off.
Here’s a quick table on mixin’ it up for newbies like us:
| Dose | Water Amount | Best Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 tsp | 8-10 oz | Morning or pre-meal | Start here, super gentle. |
| 1-2 tsp | 8-12 oz | Before biggest meal | Bump up if tummy’s cool with it. |
| 1-2 tbsp | 12-16 oz | Split across day | Max for most, don’t rush to this. |
Watch Out: The Risks of Sippin’ ACV
I ain’t gonna sugarcoat it—ACV ain’t all rainbows and unicorns. There’s some stuff ya gotta watch for if you’re gonna make this a habit. We’re keepin’ it real here.
- Teeth Trouble: Like I said, it’s acidic. If you’re slurpin’ it daily without dilutin’ or usin’ a straw, you might end up with sensitive teeth or enamel erosion. Ain’t nobody got time for dentist bills.
- Tummy Woes: Some peeps get nausea, bloating, or even acid reflux if they take too much too soon. If you’ve got a history of heartburn, go slow or skip it. Maybe chat with a doc first.
- Med Mess-Ups: ACV can lower blood sugar and blood pressure, which is great… unless you’re on meds for diabetes or hypertension. Mixin’ the two could drop ya too low. Talk to your doc if you’re on prescriptions.
- Don’t Sniff It: Weird tip, but don’t go smellin’ it while drinkin’. Inhalin’ that sharp vinegar vibe can burn your lungs a bit. Just sip and move on.
I had a buddy who went ham with ACV, chuggin’ it straight, and ended up with a sore throat for days. Don’t be that guy. Play it safe, fam.
Other Ways ACV Might Sneakily Boost Ya
Energy ain’t just about feelin’ wired. Sometimes it’s the little things that add up. Here’s other ways ACV might give ya a lil’ nudge without you even noticin’.
- Better Digestion, Less Drag: If you’re always bloated after meals, you know it saps your will to live. ACV can help break down food better, so you’re not feelin’ like a stuffed turkey. Less bloat = feelin’ lighter.
- Mood Lift via Gut: Since your gut and brain are like BFFs, improvin’ gut health with ACV’s probiotics might ease some mood swings. If you’re less cranky, you might feel more “up” for stuff.
- Detox Hype (Maybe): Some folks say it “detoxes” ya, flushin’ out junk. I ain’t sold on that, but if it makes ya feel cleaner inside, that mental boost could trick ya into thinkin’ you’ve got more zippity-zap.
What If ACV Ain’t Your Jam? Other Energy Hacks
Look, if you try ACV and it’s just not doin’ it for ya—or the taste makes you wanna gag—there’s other ways to get your energy groove on. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that don’t involve sour liquids.
- Hydrate Like Crazy: Dehydration’s a sneaky energy thief. Chug water all day, maybe toss in some lemon or cucumber if plain’s borin’. I keep a big ol’ bottle on my desk—game-changer.
- Sleep, Duh: I know, I know, easier said than done. But even an extra 30 minutes of shut-eye can make ya feel less like a corpse. I’ve been tryin’ to hit the sack earlier, and it helps.
- Snack Smart: Skip the candy bar. Grab nuts, fruit, or a lil’ yogurt. Keeps your blood sugar from doin’ the rollercoaster thing. I’ve got almonds in my bag for emergencies.
- Move Your Butt: Even a 10-minute walk can wake ya up better than a soda. I drag myself outside when I’m zonked, and somehow, I come back less dead.
- Breathe Deep: Sounds woo-woo, but takin’ five slow breaths when you’re slippin’ can reset ya. I do this when my brain’s mush—works weirdly well.
How to Pick the Right ACV for the Job
Not all ACV is created equal, peeps. If you’re gonna try this energy experiment, grab the good stuff. Here’s what I look for when I’m shoppin’:
- Go Raw and Unfiltered: Look for the kind with the “mother”—that cloudy gunk. It’s got the enzymes and bacteria that might be doin’ the heavy liftin’ for health perks.
- Organic If You Can: Less chance of funky pesticides or junk in there. I splurge on organic when my budget ain’t cryin’.
- Glass Bottles, Baby: Plastic can sometimes mess with the quality. Plus, glass just feels fancier, right?
I’ve got a bottle from a local market that checks all these boxes, and it’s been sittin’ pretty in my kitchen for ages. Don’t skimp if you’re serious about testin’ this out.
Mixin’ ACV into Your Life Beyond Just Drinkin’
If straight-up sippin’ ain’t your thing, there’s other ways to sneak ACV into your routine. I’ve played around with a few of these, and they’re kinda fun.
- Salad Dressin’ Magic: Mix it with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some herbs. Drizzle it on greens, and you’re gettin’ the benefits without chokin’ on the taste.
- Smoothie Sneak: Toss a teaspoon into your mornin’ blend of fruits and spinach. You barely notice it if you’ve got strong flavors like berries. I’ve done this on lazy days.
- Marinade Madness: Use it to soak chicken or veggies before grillin’. Adds a tangy kick and gets some of that good stuff into your system.
- Gummies for the Win: If you’re really anti-liquid, some brands make ACV gummies. I ain’t tried ‘em yet, but they sound like a cheat code for the taste haters.
Long-Term Vibes: Should You Keep at It?
If you’re wonderin’ whether to make ACV a permanent sidekick, I’d say give it a fair shot for a couple weeks. Track how ya feel—journal it if you’re fancy like that. I noticed small shifts after a week, but it wasn’t life-changin’. If you’re diggin’ the steady energy and less bloat, keep it up, but don’t expect miracles every day. And always, always dilute it—don’t be the fool who ruins their stomach over a trend.
Also, switch things up if it gets old. Maybe alternate days or pair it with other habits like better sleep. I’m still messin’ around with my routine to see if it’s worth the hassle long-term. For now, it’s a cool tool in my “don’t crash” toolkit, but I ain’t ditchin’ my coffee just yet.
Wrappin’ It Up: Is ACV Your Energy Buddy?
So, does drinking apple cider vinegar give you energy? Well, fam, it’s a “maybe” with a side of “don’t get too hyped.” It ain’t gonna replace your morning brew or an energy drink for that instant kick, but it might help smooth out your day by keepin’ blood sugar crashes at bay and makin’ your gut feel less like a war zone. For me, it’s been a subtle win—less sluggishness on some days, but I still need my beauty sleep to function.
If you’re curious, grab a bottle of the raw, unfiltered kind, mix a teaspoon or two with water, and sip through a straw before a meal. See how your body vibes with it over a week or so. Just don’t overdo it, and watch for any weird feels in your stomach or throat. If it ain’t workin’, no biggie—there’s tons of other ways to get your zing back, from hydratin’ to takin’ a quick stroll.
Got questions or wanna share if ACV got you bouncin’ off the walls? Drop a comment below. I’m all ears for your stories, ‘cause we’re all just tryin’ to survive the daily grind together. Let’s keep this convo goin’—what’s your secret to stayin’ energized? Hit me up!
What are the disadvantages of apple cider vinegar?
Consuming apple cider vinegar does come with a chance of some side effects. These include:
- may cause indigestion
- may lower potassium
- may erode tooth enamel
- may cause skin and throat burns
- may interact with certain medications such as diuretics and some diabetes drugs.
That said, the standard daily dose of 1-2 tbs isn’t likely to lead to these effects.
Is it better to drink apple cider vinegar in the morning or at night?
While apple cider vinegar may offer some health benefits, there is a lack of research on consuming it before bedtime versus at other times like the morning. That said, to avoid side effects like indigestion or acid reflux at night, consume it at least 2-3 hours before bed.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) for a Massive Energy Boost
FAQ
Does apple cider vinegar increase energy levels?
“While ACV doesn’t directly boost energy like coffee or B vitamins, it might help in a roundabout way. Since ACV can help stabilize blood sugar levels, it could prevent those energy crashes that happen after eating something sugary.
Why do I feel so good after drinking apple cider vinegar?
Is apple cider vinegar good for pregnant?
What will happen to my body if I drink apple cider vinegar every day?
Wohlford says drinking apple cider vinegar regularly or without diluting it can cause side effects such as: erosion of tooth enamel. damage to the lining of the esophagus. upset stomach.