Apple cider vinegar is available as a liquid and in tablets and capsules. It is promoted as helpful for weight loss, and it has traditional uses for treating leg cramps, acne, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. MayoClinic.com nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky cautions there is little scientific support for those claims. Taking apple cider vinegar also is associated with some side effects. Consult a qualified health care provider before adding apple cider vinegar to your diet, aside from small amounts in meal preparation.
Throat Irritation
Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, states Zeratsky. If you drink apple cider vinegar often or in large amounts, you may experience throat irritation. Severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing and even throat burns have been reported by users of apple cider vinegar tablets, according to eMedTV. This is primarily a risk if the tablets or capsules become stuck in your throat. Only take apple cider vinegar tablets or capsules with a full glass of water while sitting upright or standing. You probably should not take these supplements if you have difficulty swallowing pills, or if you have a narrowing of your esophagus, advises eMedTV.
Digestive Side Effects
The high acid content of apple cider vinegar may cause digestive side effects, according to eMedTV. Drinking a large amount might result in nausea or worsen heartburn or indigestion. If you have a stomach or intestinal ulcer, you probably should avoid consuming apple cider vinegar.
Allergic Reaction
The Cleveland Clinic suggests not consuming vinegar if you are allergic to mold, because vinegar is a common source of mold. Signs of an allergic reaction to mold in vinegar may include wheezing, problems breathing, a stuffy or runny nose, itchy and watery eyes and a rash or hives.
Low Potassium
Ingesting apple cider vinegar, particularly in large amounts, may cause low potassium levels, technically called hypokalemia, according to eMedTV. The chances of low potassium levels increase if you also use insulin to regulate diabetes or if you take diuretics. If you take the heart medication digoxin, do not consume medicinal amounts of apple cider vinegar. Dangerous effects can occur when potassium levels are low while taking digoxin.
Dental Erosion
The website Apple-Cider-Vinegar-Benefits.com lists traditional uses for this substance. The website encourages rinsing your mouth if you drink apple cider vinegar between meals or just before going to bed. The acidity can cause erosion of tooth enamel if you don't rinse the vinegar away.
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