Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) The health benefits of using apple cider vinegar (ACV) to promote weight loss is grossly overrated compared to the amount of research done on it. Most studies are done on animals. Studies in humans are small and the trials are not well designed. There are also reports of using ACV in horses and dogs to reduce the formation of large mineral salts lumps in the intestines (enterolith). There are concerns that you don’t get what you pay for. Analysis done on various brands of ACV tablets and capsules showed a very large variation in the contents and acidity levels. The acetic acid level was found to be as low as 1% to as high as 10%.Click here to get a quick one-minute summary on the health benefits of ACV. Or continue reading the full comprehensive review. 
Table
of Contents Facts on ACV
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings Common Drug & Health Condition Interactions Dosage & How to Take It Evidence of Benefits (Leaf rating system)
Facts about Apple Cider VinegarCider vinegar comes from the fermented juices of crushed apples.ACV contains large quantities of acetic acid and citric acid. It also contains vitamins B1, B2 and B6, biotin, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid and vitamin C. It is also high in pectin, a form of dietary fiber as well as the mineral potassium.
Suggested Benefits and Traditional UsesOrally
Food & Beverages It is used in
food preparation such as salad dressing.
Side Effects, Toxicity and WarningsThere are very few reported side effects of taking ACV. As it is acidic, it might cause irritation of the throat and stomach and could damage the teeth.If you have a previous history of heartburn problems, acid reflux, other reflux disorders, esophagus disorder or GERD avoid taking ACV (or dilute it down with water first before drinking). Taking apple cider vinegar as a long-term therapy could cause low potassium in your blood and osteoporosis (low bone density). Safety - It is regarded as safe when taken in the quantities normally used in food preparation.
Common Drug & Health Condition InteractionsInsulin - theoretical Diuretic Medications - caution HydroDIURIL
(hydrochlorothiazide), Lasix (furosemide), Hygroton
(chlorthalidone)
Lanoxin (digoxin) - caution As
using large amounts of ACV can cause excess potassium loss and decrease
blood potassium levels. This could be worsen when combined with
diuretics, Lanoxin (digoxin) or insulin.
Dosage & How to Take ItThere is no typical oral dosage of ACV. Some people drink one to two teaspoons daily diluted in a glass of water or juice.For treating vaginitis or yeast infections, add 3 cups of ACV to hot bath and soak allowing the water to enter the vagina. Selected References for Apple Cider Vinegar Revised: January 20, 2010 |
