What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Cider Vinegar?

Cider vinegar, also known as apple cider vinegar, or just ACV, has a long list of purported health benefits, although clinical studies confirming these benefits are lacking. Made by fermenting apple cider until it sours, the resulting vinegar has been around for hundreds of years and there are numerous anecdotal benefits regarding consuming water that contains cider vinegar. In some cases, drinking cider vinegar can have side effects, so see your doctor before treating any medical condition with cider vinegar.

Folk Remedies

The "Wittenberg Green Guide" lists numerous unconfirmed folk remedies that purport benefits from drinking ACV, including treatment for an upset stomach, sore throats, diarrhea and the common cold. Some even claim the vinegar has anti-aging properties and can assist those suffering from bad acid trips.

Current Claims

ACV's rumored to assist in weight loss and developing increased metabolism. MayoClinic.com, however, reports that drinking apple cider vinegar is unlikely to be beneficial when you're trying to shed pounds.

James Balch, M.D., author of "Prescription for Natural Cures," suggests that adding a teaspoon of cider vinegar and a teaspoon of honey to a glass of water might be beneficial for balancing your body's pH levels during a fast.

Preparation

Cider vinegar is acidic and as such must be diluted in water before being consumed. Never take a spoonful or a sip of cider vinegar by itself to avoid irritating tender throat and esophageal membranes. To prepare a standard cider vinegar and water drink, combine 2 tsp. of cider vinegar in 1 cup of warm water. You may drink several cups per day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, which cites the mixture as a potential remedy for food poisoning.

Considerations

Drinking water with cider vinegar over time might result in potassium depletion in the body. In addition, the vinegar might interfere with current medications you're taking, such as insulin or diuretics. See your doctor before using cider vinegar solutions to treat any medical condition.