Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar fermented by apple sauce, and has long been considered a natural remedy for all sorts of ailments, from skin care to a sore throat. ACV is very popular in Japan, but it has been supplemented for about 2400 years. ACV was apparently used by the Greek physician Hippocrates, who allegedly used it to treat patients with colds by mixing it with honey.
The three reasons why you should not take ACV
Although the health benefits of ACV are clear, as studies show that it is effective in killing pathogens and bacteria, there are definitely some reasons why you should not take the vinegar.
People should avoid it if they have kidney problems or stomach ulcers, while those who have diabetes, such as insulin or water pills (such as furosemide), should definitely not take it.
If you are taking medication for diabetes, ACV can lower your potassium levels to dangerous levels.
Talk to your doctor if you are taking this medicine and also want to start having ACV.
READ MORE: Apple Vinegar Cleaning Brackets: How to Clean Your Drains with ACV
Those with kidney problems or stomach ulcers should never replace their usual medication, regardless of the health benefits it holds.
Large amounts of ACV can not only lead to dangerously reduced potassium levels, but can also cause other side effects, such as erosion of the tooth enamel.
If you have diabetes and want to get it right, ACV may not be the way forward.
The most effective way to prevent and manage the disease is to eat a balanced diet that contains healthy carbohydrates and enough healthy proteins and fats.
What research has been done on ACV?
A number of studies have looked at the link between ACV and blood sugar management, with different results.
Dr. Maria Pena, an endocrinologist from New York, said: ‘Several small studies have been done that have assessed the effects of apple cider vinegar, and the results have been mixed.
‘For example, one small study was done among rats that showed that ACV helped lower LDL and A1C levels.
“But the limitation to this study is that it was only done in rats, not in humans.”
Research from a 2004 study found that ingesting 20 g of ACV diluted in 40 ml of water, with one teaspoon of saccharin, can lower blood sugar after meals.
Another study from 2007 found that taking ACV before bed wakes up moderate blood sugar.
But it is noteworthy that both studies were very small and looked at only 29 and 11 participants, respectively.
Again, do not replace your regular medication with ACV; it should only be taken with a healthy, balanced diet.