The Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is taken by people for a variety of reasons. According to some research, apple cider vinegar slows down the stomach's emptying, prolonging feelings of fullness and potentially assisting in weight loss. Additionally, a Chinese study discovered that consuming a lot of vinegar reduced the risk of esophageal cancer by 37 percent.Since it is antibacterial and antifungal, taking apple cider vinegar orally or applying it to your skin topically can help to stop the growth of a yeast infection or athlete’s foot. Some studies have even linked the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar to lower blood pressure, lowered bad cholesterol levels, and even reduced cancer risk.
Though it does not work for all diabetics, some people find that taking apple cider vinegar has an anti-glycemic effect that keep starches from being digested and causing blood sugar spikes.
Medicines That React Badly to Apple Cider Vinegar
Even with all of its advantages, apple cider vinegar still has the potential to interact strangely with some medications and result in unpleasant side effects. Because apple cider vinegar tends to lower potassium levels in the body, most medications that interact with it cause issues.
Digoxin — Digoxin, which is also sold under the name Lanoxin, is used for heart problems. apple cider vinegar can prevent the body from properly absorbing potassium, and potassium deficiencies can increase the side effects of lanoxin. Side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, vision changes, and mood swings.
Diuretics — Diuretic drugs, such as Diuril, Thalitone, Lasix, and Microzide, are used to treat bloating, and they encourage the body to shed water. Potassium is important for maintaining the water balance in the body, so if apple cider vinegar is already messing up a person’s balances of sodium and potassium, they might end up severely dehydrated.
Insulin — Many diabetics control their blood sugar by taking insulin. Even though some research shows that apple cider vinegar can help diabetics to balance their blood sugar, it should never be taken by a diabetic who also uses insulin. Simultaneously taking insulin and apple cider vinegar can cause excessively low blood sugar and potassium levels.
Other Health Conditions That Might Stop You From Using Apple Cider Vinegar
In addition to having a bad reaction when combined with certain medications, apple cider vinegar can also have a few negative effects if you have certain conditions. Pregnant women or mothers who are nursing should avoid taking regular, high doses of apple cider vinegar because it is not known if apple cider vinegar is safe for fetuses or infants. It is also important to note that studies have linked an increased apple cider vinegar intake to faster growth of bladder cancer, so people with bladder cancer should not consume apple cider vinegar. Some research suggests that consuming high quantities of apple cider vinegar can cause low potassium levels and induce osteoporosis. Therefore, postmenopausal women who are already at risk for reduced bone density should not take excessive amounts of apple cider vinegar.Like any other nutritional supplement, apple cider vinegar can be beneficial if used correctly or harmful if taken unwisely. If you are interested in the possible health benefits of apple cider vinegar, talk to your doctor about how you can include it in your diet. Most doctors recommend that patients only take a tablespoon or two each day, and dilute it with water before drinking it to prevent the acid from harming the enamel of your teeth or your stomach lining. If you do not have any preexisting conditions or take any medications that could react badly with apple cider vinegar, you may be able to add more vinegar to your diet and enjoy the many health benefits of apple cider vinegar.