Apple cider vinegar can help manage blood sugar, improve symptoms of PCOS, and promote weight loss. A typical dose is 1–2 tbsp. (15–30 mL) mixed with water and taken before or after meals. Research doesn't support claims that it can improve digestion and prevent heart disease, cancer, or infection.
ACV is generally safe when consumed in moderation — no more than 1 to 2 tablespoons (tbsp) daily. But drinking excessive amounts of ACV can decrease potassium to hazardous levels. ACV may interact with some medications (including diuretics, laxatives, and certain medications for diabetes and heart disease).
Several studies in animals and humans have found that acetic acid and apple cider vinegar may promote fat burning and weight loss, decrease blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and improve cholesterol levels ( 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ).
Taking a shot of apple cider vinegar in the morning on an empty stomach is one practice that many wellness gurus claim helps you lose weight, reduce hunger, and remove toxins from your system.
As a guide, take 1-2 teaspoons or 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per day mixed in a glass of water. How often? It is recommended to take it no more than twice a day to prevent side effects such as nausea and erosion of tooth enamel.
People who take insulin or insulin-stimulating medications and consume vinegar may experience dangerously low blood sugar or potassium levels. Digoxin (Lanoxin). This medication lowers your blood potassium levels. Taking it in combination with apple cider vinegar could lower your potassium too much.
Apple cider vinegar can be used in skin care as a toner, face wash, and even a spot treatment. The use of an apple cider vinegar toner, specifically, may help to tighten the skin and protect it from harmful environmental elements.
Can You Drink Apple Cider Vinegar on an Empty Stomach? Yes, you can drink diluted apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach. In fact, it's the recommended way to take ACV. Just wait about 20 minutes or so after drinking apple cider vinegar to eat.
Helps with painful periods: ACV can help relieve bloating, cramps, and irritability caused by PMS or periods. Regulates blood sugar levels: ACV may help regulate blood sugar levels, especially after a starchy meal.
A low calorie drink
About 100 grams of apple cider vinegar has about 22 calories, which means it makes for a low-calorie drink that can help boost weight loss. Adding a tablespoon of ACV into a glassful of water and drinking first thing in the morning may help burn belly fat.
Drinking apple cider vinegar before meals or right before bedtime may benefit your blood sugar levels the most. For example, one study in people with type 2 diabetes found that taking 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of apple cider vinegar at bedtime for 2 days reduced fasting blood sugar levels by up to 6% ( 7 ).
Apple cider vinegar is more likely to aid weight loss when combined with other diet and lifestyle changes. Drinking 1–2 tbsp. (15–30 mL) of apple cider vinegar each day for several months may increase weight loss in people with overweight.
Science supports the use of apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse. It could help strengthen hair and improve luster by lowering hair and scalp pH. It may also keep pesky scalp infections and itchiness at bay.
Drinking ACV right after a meal can delay digestion. Thus, it's best to have it before a meal or empty stomach to maximise its health benefits.
According to a study published in the Journal of Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, Apple Cider Vinegar can result in effective weight loss after three months (or 12 weeks). People in this study dropped an average of 4 pounds by consuming 1 to 2 tablespoons of diluted apple cider vinegar every day.
Dosage and Choosing a Supplement
The research that currently exists suggests that 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) per day of liquid apple cider vinegar diluted in water appears to be safe and have health benefits ( 3 , 7 ).
It has powerful antimicrobial properties that may help ease skin infections and soothe irritation. As a mild acid, ACV may also help restore the natural pH balance of your skin. This helps your skin keep moisture in and irritants out.
'The mother' is the culture of beneficial bacteria that transforms apple cider into vinegar. Organic – or unfiltered – strains of apple cider vinegar containing the mother look murkier, and have been linked with improved health benefits.
You can also drink apple cider vinegar, diluted in hot or cold water as you prefer. Some people drink it before or after meals, or before going to bed.
You don't have to refrigerate apple cider vinegar once it's opened. Instead, store it in a pantry or cabinet, away from direct sunlight. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic.
This right way to drink ACV
Just add a teaspoon of ACV in a glass of water, preferably warm water, mix it well and have it before going to bed. You can swap your normal water at night with this concoction and see the benefits of doing so within a few days.
Works as a toner
A toner enriched with apple cider vinegar does all of these things, but its benefits don't end there. Its astringent properties help brighten skin and the acidic properties are perfect to keep problems like acne at bay.
Answer: Acetic acid in apple cider vinegar may help lighten skin pigmentation and enhance the overall look of your skin. To use this remedy, combine equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a basin. Apply to dark spots and leave on for 5 to 7 minutes.
How Long Does It Take for Apple Cider Vinegar to Work on Acne? If you're using apple cider vinegar as an acne treatment, you probably won't see results overnight. A full skin-cell turnover takes about four to six weeks; so give it at least that much time for the benefits to take place.
Brushing your teeth right after consuming apple cider vinegar can wear away the tooth enamel. This can lead to cavities and tooth decay. Thus, make sure to wait for at least 30 minutes before you brush your teeth after consuming apple cider vinegar.