Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is considered healthy to consume for weight loss; it is a natural tonic. The apple cider vinegar has many health benefits only if consumed in adequate portion. ACV helps in weight loss, lower blood sugar, and healthier cholesterol levels. But there are some side effects of apple cider vinegar, which we will cover in this article.
Apple cider vinegar is prepared using apples with yeast. Yeast converts the sugar in apple into alcohol. Then, bacteria ferment the alcohol into acetic acid. Along with acetic acid, ACV contains water, other acids, vitamins, and minerals. Therefore, people can face a few side effects of apple cider vinegar if not consumed properly. Taking small quantities is good for health, but large doses may be dangerous.
Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
1. Upsets Your Stomach
Apple cider vinegar makes the food sit in the stomach for a longer time as it prevents blood sugar spikes. As the food enters the lower digestive tract late, it slows down the absorption process. The ACV contains pectin, a dietary fiber that acts as a natural gelling agent. The pectin bulks up the stool and promotes good bacteria growth. When you consume the ACV in larger doses, you may experience diarrhea as water is also accumulated.
2. Causes Uncomfortable Bloating
Bloating is an uncomfortable and annoying health condition. Apple cider vinegar can delay the stomach emptying, i.e., the food stays in the stomach for a longer period, and you feel full all the time. It can temporarily cause weight loss as it reduces appetite, but overconsuming can cause severe gas, bloating, and nausea.
3. Causes Bone Loss And Low-potassium Level
Drinking diluted apple cider vinegar in the morning can promote weight loss, but this can cause the condition of bone loss, low potassium levels (hypokalemia), and osteoporosis (brittle bones). This condition is rare in young. ACV can lead to minerals leached from the bones and to buffer the acidity in the blood. A high level of acid prevents the formation of new bones. Also, low levels of potassium can cause muscle cramps, weakness, and fatigue.
4. Erodes Tooth Enamel
Apple cider vinegar can lead to erosion of tooth enamel (any diet high in acidic food can cause it). One research shows the pH of the vinegar erodes the wisdom teeth’ enamel in just four hours after consuming. Although the saliva helps buffer the vinegar’s acidity in the mouth, large consumption of apple cider vinegar can cause the tooth’s erosion. It isn’t easy to cure the eroded tooth enamel. Cosmetic repair actions, such as ‘bonding,’ is the only option. The acetic acid can lead to weakening the dental enamel, loss of minerals, and tooth decay.
5. Causes Throat Burns
Apple cider vinegar can be responsible for the burning and irritation of the esophageal, i.e., throat. There is no such research done on this condition, but there are reported throat burn cases because of apple cider vinegar tablets stuck in the throat. Due to this incident, the patient suffers from difficulty in swallowing and pain in the throat for many months. Keep apple cider vinegar out of the children’s hands.
6. Acid Reflux May Worsen
Acid reflux is also one of the side effects of apple cider vinegar. People with acid reflux should avoid acidic foods, which include apple cider vinegar. ACV, if consumed more than the stomach acids, aggravates the acidity. Thus, one feels the burning sensation in the stomach that is not a good sign for heartburn and acid reflux problems.
Other Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a fermented liquid; it is still not good for your gut bacteria and your immune system. Also, apple cider vinegar can cause skin irritation if applied as the chemical burns it. Apple cider vinegar can also interact with drugs like insulin, digoxin (Lanoxin), and certain diuretics. Remembering the side effects of apple cider vinegar, it still has health benefits, and the key to consuming it is to control the portion. Doctors advise drinking apple cider vinegar in a diluted condition. Please consult a doctor before consuming it. It is better to avoid ACV if you have specific allergies and conditions mentioned above.
