For many years, people have utilized apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy for anything from fungus to obesity. Apple cider vinegar does have some significant health benefits, but it's important to remember that it also has some drawbacks. Apple cider vinegar has natural qualities, but if it mixes with some common medications, it can become harmful. Thus, avoid using apple cider vinegar if any of these conditions apply to you.
The Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
There are many reasons for people to take apple cider vinegar. There is some evidence to suggest that apple cider vinegar causes the stomach to empty slowly, making people feel full longer and helping to cause weight loss. A Chinese study also found that a high consumption of vinegar gave people a 37 percent decreased risk of developing esophageal cancer. 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 keeps starches from being digested and causing blood sugar spikes.
Medicines That React Badly to Apple Cider Vinegar
Despite its many benefits, apple cider vinegar can still interact oddly with certain types of medications, causing unpleasant side effects. Most medications that interact with apple cider vinegar result in problems because apple cider vinegar tends to lower potassium levels in the body.
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 balance 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. Diabetics who don’t use insulin should talk to their doctor to make sure it’s okay to use apple cider vinegar (although it is probably safe).
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 may 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. 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.