Amidor adds that apple cider vinegar isn’t recommended for people with type 1 diabetes taking insulin, as it can reduce blood sugar levels to a dangerously low degree.
“There are several potential side effects of taking apple cider vinegar,” Amidor says. “This includes tooth enamel damage, per some published studies. Esophageal burns is another issue due to the high acidity of apple cider vinegar, which can result in ulceration and burning of the esophagus when drinking it undiluted or not diluted enough.”
Another potential side effect: Amidor says it can result in slowed digestion because vinegar delays the emptying of the stomach, a condition called gastroparesis (or stomach paralysis). “People living with diabetes are at higher risk for this condition, so it should be kept in mind before taking it,” Amidor says.
And finally, drinking apple cider vinegar regularly can result in low potassium levels. “If you have been diagnosed with low blood potassium levels, it’s recommended to avoid taking apple cider vinegar as a supplement,” Amidor says. “Apple cider vinegar also interacts with a variety of medications and supplements. This includes Digoxin (Lanoxin), diabetes medications, diuretics, and herbal supplements. Always consult with your health care provider before taking apple cider vinegar in spoonfuls or in supplement form.”
How to add apple cider vinegar to your diet
“Although the evidence isn’t strong in taking apple cider vinegar, the recommended amount is 1 tablespoon if you choose to take it in liquid form,” Amidor says. “Always consult with your health care provider before taking it. If you choose to take supplements, make sure it is third party verified for quality and to ensure the amount listed is there.”
To find out how the regular intake of apple cider vinegar would affect my health and well-being, I drank it every morning on an empty stomach about 15 minutes before breakfast.
Because of the acidity, you should always do this with water and dilute about two teaspoons of vinegar in 200 ml of water. This is not only important for the taste, but also because it protects your teeth enamel from the acidity of the vinegar.
Beware: The taste of the apple cider vinegar is not a treat! However, I did quickly get used to the routine.
My verdict:
The taste of the apple cider vinegar was definitely a hurdle for me. Nevertheless, I went through with the test, mainly because I noticed the effects of it after just a few days.
By drinking apple cider vinegar in the morning, I actually had the feeling that my entire body was able to get going more quickly. I felt fit and ready for the day much sooner.
I also had the impression that the breakfast I ate after was being digested better and faster. Due to my rather sensitive stomach, I usually have feel full or even bloated after breakfast. This feeling was completely absent whenever I regularly drank apple cider vinegar.
After four weeks of drinking apple cider vinegar every morning, I definitely had the impression that my intestinal health had improved. I also noticed that in the very month during which I carried out this test, some friends and family members in my immediate circle had a cold or even some kind of summer flu. I, however, was spared any infections or colds. Whether my strong immune system was due to the apple cider vinegar or something else, I can’t say for sure.
Tips for drinking apple cider vinegar
Protect your tooth enamel: When drinking the vinegar, it can be useful to use a straw to protect your teeth from the acid.
