The apple cider vinegar diet stems from an old folk remedy for weight loss and other ailments. The diet calls for drinking 1 to 3 tsp. of the vinegar in water before meals to help suppress the appetite and help with fat burning. No scientific evidence supports the use of apple cider vinegar for weight loss. For the most part, the practice is harmless, but there are some risks to consider.
Acid Irritation
Apple cider vinegar contains a high level of acetic acid. Too much vinegar, especially if consumed undiluted, may cause damage to tooth enamel or the delicate lining of the stomach. In one reported case, a woman swallowed an apple cider vinegar tablet and it became lodged in her throat. In this case, she suffered months of pain and difficulty swallowing reports "Nutrition Research Newsletter" in 2005.
Interactions
Certain diuretics, laxatives, medicines for diabetes and heart disease might interact negatively with apple cider vinegar, according to MayoClinic.com. This might lead to low potassium levels, which can cause fatigue and muscular weakness. Check with your doctor before taking apple cider vinegar to be sure you will not have drug interactions.
Possible Contamination
Although the acid in vinegar usually kills most bacteria, there is a risk that unfiltered and pasteurized forms of apple cider vinegar could contain E. coli. An article in the publication Nutrition Forum in 1997, points out that if an apple cider vinegar's acidity weakens, pathogens may be able to survive and grow---leading to food poisoning.
Mislabeling
Some people on the apple cider vinegar diet use capsules, rather than the liquid, as a supplement. The "Nutrition Research Newsletter" article noted that these supplements mostly underreported the amount of acetic acid present---casting concerns as to whether these supplements actually contain apple cider vinegar as stated. Supplements are unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so you can never be sure that the claims on the packaging are accurate. You risk not experiencing any of the purported benefits of the diet.
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