There is a lot of hype in the health and fitness industry surrounding apple cider vinegar and its supposed benefits. Ranging from aiding weight loss, to managing blood sugar levels and improving gut health.
What makes it particularly useful on the Candida diet is that apple cider vinegar has been shown to have anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties, as well as the ability to improve digestion.
In fact, I have a whole other blog post talking about whether it can be used to treat Candida overgrowth. Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Treat Candida?
Perhaps you're already keen to give apple cider vinegar a try, but are unsure of the best way to go about it.
Is there a right way to take it? How much should I be taking and how often? How long until I see results?
If you’ve asked yourself any of the above questions, then this post is for you! I’ve compiled all the facts and evidence to show you the best way to take apple cider vinegar.
Jump to:
🍹 Can I Drink Apple Cider Vinegar?
After hearing all the amazing health claims about apple cider vinegar, I’m sure you’re keen to get started with it right away.
But before you grab a bottle and simply start drinking, STOP! There is a right way to take apple cider vinegar for optimal health.
The most important thing to remember is never to consume apple cider vinegar undiluted. Because doing so may cause damage to your teeth and throat.
I see this quite often on social media; people taking apple cider vinegar either straight from the spoon, or like a tequila shot. In fact, it is what inspired me to write this post!
✨ Top Tips for Taking Apple Cider Vinegar
Here are the top tips for taking apple cider vinegar:
- You don’t need to take very much – more apple cider vinegar does not necessarily mean more health benefits! Take 1-2 teaspoon (5-10ml) diluted everyday, before or with meals.
- Consume the apple cider vinegar diluted either in a small glass of water, or as part of a vinaigrette to have with your meal.
- Take no more than 45 ml a day to experience the benefits without any adverse side-effects.
- Note that it is specifically Apple Cider Vinegar, not other cooking vinegars, that is supported by the health claims. You should also be consuming Organic Apple Cider Vinegar for optimal benefits.
🕗 How Long Before Apple Cider Vinegar Works?
OK, so you’ve started to take apple cider vinegar every day. Now what? How will you know if it’s even working?
Although there are limited long-term trials to draw from, the scientific trials focused on cholesterol and diabetes, were conducted over a period of 2-3 months to see results.
Having said that, the effects of taking apple cider vinegar will vary from person to person. A good benchmark to use is to take apple cider vinegar (as directed above) consistently for at least 8 weeks, and see if you notice any positive changes.
Another great idea is to track your observations and symptoms in a food journal, to see if you notice any subtle improvements.
❌ Is Apple Cider Vinegar Bad for You?
Now we’ve heard about all the pros of apple cider vinegar. But can it be harmful too?
It’s worth remembering that the high acidity of apple cider vinegar may damage tooth enamel when consumed undiluted.
In addition, excessive doses of acetic acid (the main component of apple cider vinegar) can cause adverse side-effects such as stomach irritation, heartburn, and an irritated throat and oesophagus. However, I'll reiterate that this is in the case of excessive doses.
You should also proceed with caution if you are on any existing medication, or have any existing conditions such as diabetes which may be influenced by the regular consumption of vinegar – always ask your doctor for guidance if you are not sure.
💭 Final Thoughts
So there you have it, now you know the best way to take apple cider vinegar for optimal health!
If you’re interested in experimenting with apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy, try taking a couple of teaspoons diluted before or during meals for a couple of months to see how you feel.
If you find it benefits you and helps with any of the symptoms that you were experiencing before, then perhaps it is worthwhile to continue using for your healing journey.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know!