Stomach aches are a fairly common problem. Whether you overindulged at dinner or have a more serious underlying problem, however, is an issue only a doctor can sort out. Apple cider vinegar is a home remedy that might relieve symptoms of some kinds of stomach aches. Even so, you should talk with your doctor about supplementing with vinegar before attempting to drink it.
Stomach Ache Causes
Stomach aches can be the result of many problems, indigestion, gas, and constipation, to name a few. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, acid-related stomach pain occurs because the esophageal muscle fails to close after eating, causing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus and create a burning sensation. If your stomach aches are due to acid reflux or heartburn, apple cider vinegar might help.
Why Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar might help with acid stomach aches because much of the time, acid indigestion occurs due to low stomach acid levels, according to Thomas Baroody, author of "Alkalize or Die." In fact, drinking vinegar before meals should restore proper acid levels in the stomach and prevent reflux altogether.
Dose
According to Baroody, you should take 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar before meals to control acid-related stomach aches. However, this practice can be literally hard to swallow. Diluting the vinegar in 1 cup of water can lessen the bad flavor and the risk of side effects. As of 2011, there have not been studies done to confirm the effects of vinegar on heartburn and acid reflux stomach pain.
Side Effects
Drinking apple cider vinegar can cause side effects. According to MayoClinic.com, the acidity in vinegar may irritate the stomach and worsen ulcers in those who have them, causing further stomach aches. If you have acid reflux stomach pain, consult with a doctor before drinking vinegar. Likewise, drinking vinegar can cause drug interactions. If you take insulin or diuretics, you shouldn't drink vinegar, warns Health Services at Columbia, as you may experience a sudden drop in potassium.
References
- "Alkalize or Die"; Thomas Baroody; 1991
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD); May 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss: Effective?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.N., L.D.; April 2010
- Health Services at Columbia; Go Ask Alice! Apple Cider Vinegar; August 2010
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