It’s safe and tasty to use ACV to add some excitement to your meals. Use it to liven up sauces and stews, as well as traditional salad dressings and marinades. You can also drink it, diluted in hot or cold water as you prefer. Some people drink it before or after meals or before going to bed.
What is apple cider vinegar?Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been used in health and wellness as far back as 3300 B.C. and is still hugely popular today.1 ACV is made from fermented apples with yeast and bacteria that naturally form during the fermentation process. When the sugars from the apples ferment, acetic acid is created and it’s this which is thought to be the source of ACV’s potential health benefits.1
- Are you on diuretics or heart medication? – Apple cider vinegar can interact with these medications and cause low potassium levels.4
- Are you diabetic? – Apple cider vinegar can lower blood sugar levels, so taking it in combination with diabetes medication can cause your blood glucose levels to drop too far.5 Make sure to monitor your blood sugar levels.
- Do you have problems with your kidneys? – Apple cider vinegar was found to be toxic in situations where kidney function is impaired.6 If you have lower kidney functions, avoid ACV.
If you’re on medication or have any pre-existing conditions, you should always check with your GP before making major changes to your diet.
4 different ways to take apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar comes in different formats, so adding it to your diet has never been easier. Here’s a few different ways that you can take apple cider vinegar:
- Pure apple cider vinegar – The traditional liquid form. You can get this either with or without the Mother (the good bacteria created during the fermenting process), and it can be diluted down with water or added to salad dressings to be incorporated into your diet.
- Apple cider vinegar gummies – Gummies are a quick and easy way to incorporate supplements into your everyday routine. You can get ACV gummies with or without the Mother.
- Apple cider vinegar tablets – Like gummies, but less chewy. Tablets are another quick, easy way to incorporate ACV into your routine. Simply swallow with water.
- Apple cider vinegar shots – Shots are short, quick drinks that you can essentially have in one go. These are a great start to your day and can replace your morning coffee.
Debunking the health myths surrounding apple cider vinegar
FAQ
Can I mix apple cider vinegar with honey in hot water?
How long does it take to see results with apple cider vinegar?
How much water should I mix with apple cider vinegar?
“Even 2 – 4 ounces of water mixed with 1 – 3 teaspoons of ACV is a good ratio for many people.” Even when it’s diluted, apple cider vinegar is still an extremely acidic substance. Caitlin Hoff, a health and safety investigator for ConsumerSafety.org, says that ACV is highly acidic and as such, can damage tooth enamel.
What can one mix apple cider with?
Here are some suggestions for popular blends: Apple cider with cinnamon: add a cinnamon stick to apple cider for a warm and cozy touch. Apple cider with orange juice: mix fresh orange juice with apple cider for a refreshing citrus taste. Apple cider with spices: try adding spices such as cloves, nutmeg or ginger to apple cider for a more complex flavor.
How do you drink apple cider vinegar?
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (We like Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar) Even diluted, the vinegar drink may not taste fabulous, so you can add a squeeze of honey and/or a dash of cinnamon or ginger. Sip the drink slowly. If you’re drinking ACV daily, you may want to drink through a straw to prevent wearing the enamel of your teeth.
Is apple cider vinegar better than water?
Apple cider vinegar and water is also believed to be more hydrating than plain water. As well as adding a bit of tart flavor to plain water, apple cider vinegar is believed to have beneficial properties, especially in the sediment that forms at bottom, which is known as the “mother.” But this has not actually been proven through scientific testing.