Nowadays everybody is driven by the latest trends and most of us follow certain things because of the marketing, the hype and the promise to deliver quick results. Thus, when the internet and market is flooded with many potions and pills that promise us miraculous health benefits, everybody wants to try it out because that’s the trend!!! And one of those trends is drinking “Apple Cider Vinegar” which is “labelled” as having solutions to many health issues. However before we conclude it to be an ultimate magical potion lets learn more about Apple Cider Vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar – A magical cure?

Apple Cider Vinegar also popularly known as ACV is made from crushed apple after fermenting it. ACV is used in cooking and as salad dressings. However, the hype is because of the health claims attached to it. ACV is known to be beneficial for weight loss, diabetes management, managing kidney stones and many more health conditions. However, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is lacking. Most of the studies are conducted on mice and rats, and there are very few studies that are conducted in humans and hence, further research is needed to confirm its benefits to humans.

Hypokalaemia – It is the condition wherein the potassium levels in the blood are low. So, if you are already someone who has low potassium levels, having ACV can further lower your potassium levels.
Erosion of the enamel – As AVC is acidic in nature, if taken excessively in an undiluted form, over a period of time it would lead to damage of enamel.
Digestive issues – due to its acidic nature, ACV when taken in an undiluted form can cause irritation in the oesophagus, and it is better to refrain from using ACV when one is having an ulcer or any other gut issues as it may worsen the symptoms.
Interactions with drugs and medication – ACV may interact with certain medications and drugs like diuretics, laxatives, medication for diabetes and heart disease etc. Hence one should be cautious.
Dosage – There isn’t reliable information about what is the appropriate dosage of apple cider vinegar when it is used as a medication. More studies are needed to determine the safe usage and effectiveness.
Final thoughts:

Just like any other supplements, ACV cannot substitute a healthy lifestyle. It may provide some added benefits to our bodies however; further research findings are needed before we fully understand the benefits and side effects that are associated with ACV. Moreover, each individual’s body is different and hence it is very specific to each body type and how one can tolerate ACV and get benefited.  There is however no shortcut, quick fixes or any magical potion to good health.

So, give it a thought – Will this apple really keep the doctor away?