Irritable bowel syndrome can place a serious damper on your lifestyle. The uncomfortable and often painful symptoms leave those afflicted searching for remedies everywhere, including in their kitchen pantries. Apple cider vinegar may provide some relief for your irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, but it should not be used as a replacement for traditional therapies.
IBS
The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome isn't known, but the condition can be defined as a disruption of or an intolerance for intestinal movement. In fact, normal intestinal spasms that move matter to the colon can cause pain, bloating, gas and cramping. Likewise, people with this condition tend to deal with diarrhea, constipation or both on a regular basis.
About Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar can be made from any fruit, but apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apples. This process starts when crushed apples ferment into alcohol with the addition of sugar and yeast. Then, the alcohol continues to ferment into acetic acid, according to a review published in a 2006 issue of "Medscape General Medicine" by Carol S. Johnston, Ph.D., R.D. The acetic acid in vinegar is what's commonly thought to provide the most nutritional benefits for home remedies.
Antibacterial Properties
According to "Dr. Earl Mindell's Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar," by Earl Mindell, M.D., apple cider vinegar possesses antibacterial properties that are helpful in the treatment of IBS. By eliminating harmful bacteria, your body is allowed to digest food properly. Specifically, apple cider vinegar may relieve constipation, says Mindell.
Dosage
You shouldn't drink apple cider vinegar straight as it's acidic and can burn your mouth and throat if you're not careful. According to Mindell, mixing together 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar and 8 oz. of water and consuming it prior to meals should ease digestion and reduce your IBS symptoms.
References
- "Medscape General Medicine"; Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect; Carol S. Johnston, Ph.D., R.D., et. al.; May 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Irritable Bowel Syndrome; December 2009
- "Dr. Earl Mindell's Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar"; Earl Mindell, M.D.; 2002
