Honey and vinegar have been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for thousands of years, with folk medicine often combining the two as a health tonic (1).
The mixture, which is typically diluted with water, is thought to provide a range of health benefits, including weight loss and reduced blood sugar levels.
This article explores the combination of apple cider vinegar and honey, including its potential benefits and downsides.
Vinegar can be made from most sources of fermentable carbs. Apple cider vinegar starts with apple juice as a base, which is then fermented twice with yeast. Its main ingredient is acetic acid, giving it its characteristically sour flavor (1).
On the other hand, honey is a sweet and viscous substance produced by bees and stored within a cluster of waxy, hexagonal cells known as a honeycomb (2).
Honey is a mixture of two sugars — fructose and glucose — with trace amounts of pollen, micronutrients, and antioxidants (3, 4, 5).
Many consider apple cider vinegar and honey to be a tasty combination, as the sweetness of honey helps mellow vinegar’s puckery taste.
Consuming this tonic is thought to provide many health benefits. However, given that both ingredients have been studied separately, the effects of this mixture specifically are largely unknown.
Hey there wellness warriors! If you’ve been curious about the buzz around apple cider vinegar (ACV) and honey you’re in the right spot. I’ve been mixin’ this funky combo for a while now, and lemme tell ya, it’s a game-changer for feeling good from the inside out. So, how do I take apple cider vinegar with honey, you ask? Well, stick with me, and I’ll spill all the deets— from the simplest way to whip it up to why it’s worth a shot, plus some creative twists to keep things fresh.
We’re gonna dive deep into this natural tonic that’s been hyped for everything from better digestion to kickin’ colds to the curb. Whether you’re a newbie or just lookin’ to switch up your routine, I gotcha covered with easy steps, benefits, and a few “whoa, didn’t think of that” ideas. Let’s get started with the basics right off the bat!
The Simple Way to Take Apple Cider Vinegar with Honey
Alright, let’s cut to the chase If you’re wonderin’ how to get this stuff into your system without much fuss, here’s the down-and-dirty method I use most days It’s super basic, no fancy gear needed, and takes like two minutes.
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What You’ll Need
- 1-2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (look for the kind with the “mother” for max benefits—it’s that cloudy stuff at the bottom).
- 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of raw honey (local is awesome if you can snag it, ‘cause it’s got extra antibacterial vibes).
- 8 ounces of warm water (not boilin’ hot, just cozy warm to help the honey dissolve).
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How to Make It:
- Grab a mug or glass and pour in that warm water.
- Add the honey first and stir it ‘round til it melts into the water nice and smooth.
- Toss in the apple cider vinegar and give it another quick mix. That’s it, fam!
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How to Drink It:
Sip this bad boy once a day, ideally in the mornin’ on an empty stomach to kickstart your digestion. If mornings ain’t your thing, before a meal works too. Just don’t chug it undiluted—ACV is acidic as heck and can mess with your throat or teeth if you’re not careful.
I gotta be real with ya—this mix ain’t gonna taste like a milkshake. The vinegar’s got a sharp, tangy bite, and even with honey’s sweetness, it’s still a bit of a punch. But after a few days, you get used to it, and knowin’ the good it’s doin’ makes it worth the weird face you might pull at first sip.
Why Even Bother with ACV and Honey? The Big Benefits
Now that you know the “how,” let’s chat about the “why.” I started mixin’ apple cider vinegar with honey ‘cause I heard it could help with my gut feelin’ less blah, but turns out, there’s a whole bunch of reasons to give it a go. Here’s the lowdown on what this combo might do for ya, based on what I’ve felt and what’s out there in the wellness world.
- Gut Health Gets a Boost: ACV’s got probiotics—those good lil’ bacteria that keep your tummy happy. Honey, on the other hand, acts like food for those bacteria with its prebiotic magic. Together, they can help with bloating and keep things movin’ smooth. I’ve noticed less of that “ugh, I ate too much” feelin’ after meals since starting this.
- Blood Sugar Balance: If you’re like me and get those sugar crashes after eatin’, this mix might help. The vinegar slows down how fast carbs turn into sugar in your blood, preventin’ wild spikes. Honey, while sweet, don’t hit as hard as regular sugar, so it’s a steadier energy vibe. I feel more even-keeled through the day with this in my routine.
- Immune System Backup: Both ingredients pack antimicrobial and antioxidant powers. They might help ya fight off colds or at least make ‘em less miserable. I swear by this stuff when I feel a scratchy throat comin’ on—it’s like a natural shield.
- Soothes a Sore Throat or Cough: Speakin’ of throats, honey’s a classic for coatin’ and calmin’ irritation, and ACV chips in with some antibacterial action. I’ve mixed this up when I’m hackin’ away, and it eases things a bit, no lie.
- Heart Health Perks: There’s chatter that ACV can nudge cholesterol and blood pressure in the right direction if you sip it regular-like. Honey’s antioxidants also protect your blood vessels. I ain’t a doc, but small wins like this add up for keepin’ your ticker happy.
- Weight Management Support: Some folks, includin’ yours truly, find that ACV makes ya feel fuller longer by slowin’ how fast food leaves your stomach. Honey curbs my sweet tooth, so I’m not divin’ for cookies every five minutes. It ain’t a magic pill, but paired with good eatin’ and movin’, it’s a solid sidekick.
These benefits ain’t guaranteed for everyone, and honestly, a lotta the proof is from people’s stories rather than hardcore science. But for me, the difference in how I feel—more energy, less bloat—keeps me sippin’. Plus, it’s natural and cheap, so why not experiment a bit?
Creative Ways to Jazz Up Your ACV and Honey Game
If the basic drink I just laid out sounds borin’ as heck or you can’t stand the taste no matter how much you try, don’t sweat it. We can get fancy with this mix and sneak it into your day in ways that don’t feel like a chore. Here are some ideas I’ve played with to keep things interestin’.
- ACV and Honey Tea: Brew up a cup of herbal tea—chamomile or green tea are my go-tos. Add a tablespoon of ACV and a spoonful of honey while it’s still warm. Stir it up, and you’ve got a soothin’ drink that feels more like a treat than a health thing. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re under the weather.
- Salad Dressing with a Kick: Mix one part ACV with two parts olive oil, throw in a tablespoon of honey, and season with salt, pepper, and maybe some dried herbs. Whisk it good and drizzle over your greens. It’s tangy-sweet and makes eatin’ healthy way less of a drag. I’ve been usin’ this on my lunch salads, and it’s a total vibe.
- Smoothie Booster: If you’re a smoothie fan, blend a tablespoon each of ACV and honey with a cup of water or almond milk, a handful of spinach or kale, and a banana for extra sweetness. Toss in berries or mango if you’re feelin’ wild. It hides the vinegar taste pretty darn well, and you still get the perks. I do this when I’m rushin’ out the door.
- Quick Energy Shot: For a fast pick-me-up, mix a tablespoon of ACV with a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of cinnamon. Dilute with just a tiny bit of water and down it quick. It’s like a lil’ jolt without the coffee jitters. I’ve used this before workouts, and it’s oddly energizin’.
- Marinade Magic: Combine ACV, honey, some olive oil, garlic, and spices to make a marinade for chicken or veggies. Let ‘em soak for a bit before cookin’. The sweet-tart flavor adds a wicked twist to your meals. I tried this on grilled chicken last weekend, and fam, it was fire.
These are just starters—get creative! The key is to mask that strong ACV bite if it ain’t your thing while still gettin’ the goodness. Experimentin’ with flavors keeps me from gettin’ sick of it, and I bet it’ll do the same for you.
When Should I Take This Stuff? Timing Tips
One question I get a lot (and wondered myself at first) is when’s the best time to drink this mix. Truth is, there ain’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s what works for most peeps, includin’ me, based on trial and error.
- Morning Kickstart: Sippin’ it first thing on an empty stomach is popular for jumpstartin’ digestion and metabolism. I do this most days ‘cause it sets a healthy tone for the rest of my hours. Plus, it wakes me up better than scrollin’ social media.
- Before Meals: If mornings don’t work, try it 20-30 minutes before eatin’. It might help with appetite control and get your gut ready to process food. I’ve done this before dinner when I know I’m about to overeat.
- Evening Wind-Down: Some folks prefer night time for a calmin’ effect, especially if they struggle with digestion after late meals. Mix it into warm tea for a cozy vibe. I’ve tried this when I’m feelin’ restless, and it helps settle me down.
- Pre-Workout Boost: If you’re hittin’ the gym, a quick shot of this before can give ya a lil’ energy lift from the honey’s natural sugars. I’ve noticed I don’t crash mid-sweat sesh when I do this.
Listen to your body, though. If one time makes ya feel off, switch it up. And don’t overdo it—once a day is plenty for most of us.
Heads-Up: Precautions and Side Effects to Watch For
Before you go all-in on this ACV and honey craze, let’s talk real for a sec. I’m all about keepin’ it natural, but this mix ain’t perfect for everyone, and there’s some risks if you’re not smart about it. Here’s what I’ve learned to watch out for, ‘cause I don’t want y’all dealin’ with nasty surprises.
- Always Dilute It: Never, and I mean never, drink straight ACV. It’s super acidic and can burn your throat or mess up your stomach lining. I made that mistake once, and ouch, it weren’t pretty. Always mix with water or somethin’ else.
- Tooth Enamel Alert: That acidity can also wear down your teeth over time, makin’ ‘em sensitive or prone to cavities. I sip through a straw to bypass my chompers, then rinse my mouth with plain water after. Works like a charm.
- Stomach Upset Possible: If your gut’s sensitive, ACV might cause some burnin’ or discomfort, especially if you take too much. Start with just a teaspoon and see how ya feel before rampin’ up. I had a rough first day ‘til I dialed it back.
- Blood Sugar Weirdness: ACV can lower blood sugar, which is great for some, but if you’re on meds for diabetes, it might drop it too low. Honey can raise it, so the mix is unpredictable. I’d chat with a doc if you’re in that boat.
- Too Much Ain’t Good: Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of ACV a day max. Overdoin’ it can mess with your potassium levels, makin’ ya tired or weak. I keep it chill with just one dose daily to play it safe.
- Check with a Pro: If you’re pregnant, nursin’, or got health issues, run this by your healthcare person first. Better safe than sorry, right? I always double-check new stuff with my doc when I’m unsure.
Keepin’ these in mind, I’ve had no major issues, but everyone’s bod is different. Start slow, pay attention to how you feel, and don’t push it if somethin’ feels off.
A Quick Cheat Sheet for ACV and Honey Mixes
To make this super easy to reference, here’s a lil’ table I put together with the main ways I take ACV and honey. Pick what fits your vibe and roll with it!
| Method | Ingredients | How to Prep | Best Time to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Drink | 1-2 tbsp ACV, 1 tsp-1 tbsp honey, 8 oz warm water | Mix honey in water, add ACV, stir. | Morning or before meals |
| Soothing Tea | 1 tbsp ACV, 1 tbsp honey, 1 cup herbal tea | Brew tea, add ACV and honey, stir well. | Evening or when sick |
| Salad Dressing | 1 part ACV, 2 parts olive oil, 1 tbsp honey | Whisk all together, season to taste. | With lunch or dinner salads |
| Smoothie Add-In | 1 tbsp ACV, 1 tbsp honey, fruits, greens, liquid | Blend all ingredients until smooth. | Morning or post-workout |
| Energy Shot | 1 tbsp ACV, 1 tsp honey, pinch cinnamon, water | Mix and dilute with a splash of water, drink fast. | Pre-workout or midday slump |
Save this somewhere handy—I keep a sticky note on my fridge with these ideas so I don’t forget when I’m brain-dead in the mornin’.
My Personal Take: Why I’m Hooked on This Mix
Lemme wrap this up with a lil’ story from my own journey. When I first heard about apple cider vinegar and honey, I was skeptical as heck. I mean, vinegar in a drink? Sounds nasty, right? But after a few weeks of feelin’ sluggish and bloated, I figured I’d give it a whirl. Started with the basic recipe I shared, just a small dose each mornin’. First few sips were rough—I ain’t gonna lie, I winced hard. But stickin’ with it, I started noticin’ my gut didn’t feel so heavy, and I wasn’t crashin’ after lunch like usual.
Now, it’s a non-negotiable part of my day, whether I’m sippin’ the plain mix or jazzin’ it up in a smoothie. I’ve even got my fam tryin’ it, and they’re slowly comin’ around too. It ain’t a cure-all, and I still gotta eat right and move my butt, but it’s a small step that makes me feel like I’m takin’ charge of my health without breakin’ the bank or overthinkin’ it.
So, if you’re sittin’ there wonderin’ if you should try takin’ apple cider vinegar with honey, I say go for it. Start simple, see how your body vibes with it, and play around with the recipes ‘til you find your sweet spot. We’re all on this wellness grind together, and little hacks like this can add up to big wins. Drop a comment or hit me up if you’ve got tricks of your own—I’m always down to swap ideas and keep learnin’! Let’s keep sippin’ smart and feelin’ good, y’all!
Acetic acid may promote weight loss
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has been studied as a weight loss aid.
In a 12-week study in 144 adults with obesity, those ingesting 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of apple cider vinegar diluted in a 17-ounce (500-ml) drink daily experienced the most weight loss and a 0.9% reduction in body fat, compared with two control groups (6).
Apple cider vinegar has also been shown to keep you feeling fuller longer, as it slows down how quickly nutrients from foods are absorbed into your bloodstream — an effect that may further aid weight loss (7, 8).
Still, when you combine honey and vinegar, keep in mind that honey is high in calories and sugar and should be consumed in moderation (9).
May improve heart health
The chlorogenic acid in vinegar is thought to help decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, potentially reducing your risk of heart disease (1).
Plus, in rodent studies, honey has been shown to lower high blood pressure, another risk factor for heart disease (1, 13).
It also contains polyphenol antioxidants, which may reduce heart disease risk by improving blood flow and preventing blood clots and the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Still, more research in this area is needed (14).
Furthermore, apple cider vinegar may reduce inflammation and decrease your risk of plaque buildup in your arteries, which can protect heart health. Though, more human studies are needed to explore this possible benefit (15).
While the health benefits of apple cider vinegar and honey have been studied individually, very little is known about the effects of consuming them as a mixture.
Apple Cider Vinegar And HONEY | Must Watch!
FAQ
What are the benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar and honey?
Combining apple cider vinegar (ACV) and honey creates an “oxymel” believed to support digestion, boost immunity, and aid weight management, thanks to ACV’s probiotic and honey’s prebiotic properties. Both have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. While anecdotal evidence supports these benefits, clinical research on the combination is limited.
Is it better to take apple cider vinegar in the morning or at night time?
How to use ACV and honey for weight loss?
Mix 1 tbsp ACV and 1 tsp honey in warm water. Drink once a day, ideally in the morning or before meals.
How much honey to add to apple cider?
We recommend adding enough honey to reach a starting gravity of at least 1.060, shoot for a higher number if you want a more alcoholic cider. Honey adds 35 gravity points per pound of honey per gallon of cider. In order to incorporate your honey into your cider you’ll need to do a “light decoction” as we called it.
Can apple cider vinegar & honey be used together?
Proven health benefits of apple cider vinegar and honey based on science. Detailed instructions on how to use them together to boost your health.
How to make apple cider vinegar & honey drink at home?
Here’s how to make your apple cider vinegar and honey drink at home. 1. The Basic Recipe Heat the water to a warm, but not scalding, temperature to preserve the nutrients in the honey. Add the apple cider vinegar to the warm water. Stir in the honey until it dissolves completely.
How do you eat honey & apple cider vinegar?
In folk medicine, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar and 2 teaspoons (21 grams) of honey are diluted in 8 ounces (240 ml) of hot water and enjoyed as a comforting tonic before bedtime or upon waking. You can enjoy this warm mixture on its own or add lemon, ginger, fresh mint, cayenne pepper, or ground cinnamon for flavor.
Can you mix honey & vinegar?
Still, when you combine honey and vinegar, keep in mind that honey is high in calories and sugar and should be consumed in moderation (9). Both honey and apple cider vinegar are considered natural antimicrobials. Honey is thought to help relieve seasonal allergies, as it contains trace amounts of pollen and plant compounds.
What are the health benefits of honey & apple cider vinegar?
The potential health benefits of honey and apple cider vinegar have mostly been studied separately. Vinegar is believed to aid weight loss, while both are believed to improve heart health and alleviate cold and seasonal allergy symptoms.
When should you drink apple cider vinegar & honey?
The timing of when you enjoy your apple cider vinegar and honey drink can affect its benefits. Drinking it in the morning on an empty stomach is said to help kickstart your metabolism and digestion. Others prefer to take it before bed, attributing to it a soothing, sleep-promoting effect. Moderation is key.