Apple Cider Vinegar: The Good and The Not So Good

[tcmgpt13]

First I would like to bring up an old thread about apple cider vinegar. So many good discussions get buried on the forum. There are always new members and readers so I thought I would bring this subject up again here, especially as it is a cheap way to partially control symptoms. I myself have to watch the use of vinegar as it contains mold and too much can cause discomfort for me (stomach pain, nasal congestion). I love the flavor of vinegar in salad dressings even though I should not use it. I know if I cut out all mold containing foods I feel better, but I admit to not be consistent about that as so many condiments contain vinegar and it's found in aged cheeses as well:

Parasites HATE Vinegar

I would also like to add in some cautions about using ACV. It is probably best to make sure you brush your teeth after using ACV, just as you would with other acid foods such as lemon and other citrus and sodas.

Does Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Have Side Effects?

Organic apple cider vinegar begins with the juice of organic apples, those which have not been treated with pesticides or herbicides. Adding yeast ferments the natural fruit sugars and any added sugar into alcohol. During a second fermentation, acid-forming bacteria or prolonged exposure to air convert the alcohol into vinegar. The resulting product does not contain any chemical preservatives or synthetic additives. Apple cider vinegar is purported to help people lose weight, reduce cholesterol levels and improve acne, but eMedTV notes that no evidence supports these uses. Side effects are unrelated to the organic nature of the product, and most are due to its acidity.

Acidity Effects
The acid content of organic apple cider vinegar, like any other vinegar, may cause an upset stomach, as noted by eMedTV. Consuming a large amount can lead to or worsen heartburn or indigestion, and may result in nausea. Another risk associated with acidity is diminished bone mineral density after long-term use, according to Healthline. Apple cider vinegar acidity also may destroy tooth enamel when taken orally for prolonged time frames.

Hypokalemia
Although apple cider vinegar contains potassium, on rare occasions it is associated with low potassium blood levels, also known as hypokalemia. This side effect, although unlikely, may occur with long-term use. Healthline advises people who already have low potassium levels or are taking medications that can lower potassium to use apple cider vinegar with caution.

Allergic Reaction
Anyone allergic to yeast, mold, apples or salicylates may have a negative reaction to organic apple cider vinegar. Salicylates are naturally-occurring chemicals found in apples and many other fruits, as well as in vegetables and nuts. Allergy symptoms as listed by the Cleveland Clinic may include wheezing, difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, headaches, stomach pain, itching, skin rash or hives and swelling of the face, feet or hands. An allergic reaction to organic apple cider vinegar should be considered a medical emergency.


Read more: Does Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Have Side Effects? | LIVESTRONG.COM

[Katinka]

Originally Posted by tcmgpt13

I would also like to add in some cautions about using ACV. It is probably best to make sure you brush your teeth after using ACV, just as you would with other acid foods such as lemon and other citrus and sodas.

Thanks tcm for this helpful post. I would like to add though that one should avoid brushing teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods. The abrasion combined with acid can cause additional enamel loss.

Best is to wait app. 1 hour.

Kat

[tcmgpt13]

Hey Kat, that's good to know. I have never heard that before. I found this though on a website where the article also cautions about over brushing and eating between meals. The advice is to use dental floss and/or toothpicks if anything is consumed between meals:

"Avoid brushing your teeth for one hour post consuming acidic food and drink. While this may seem counterintuitive, acidic foods and drink soften the tooth enamel and leave it prone to damage from brushing. Wait an hour before brushing.[6] It is also very important not to over brush your teeth at any time; too much brushing is abrasive and wears down your teeth.[7] Rely on dental floss and toothpicks in between morning and evening brushing."

How to Protect Your Teeth from Acid Wear - wikiHow

[hurtin1]

Easy fix,,,,,neutralize the acid in mouth with baking soda rinse..Ta-da!!!!