ACV is being recommended by dietitians and health conscious people who consider it as an all-in-one natural cure for a number of diseases ranging from weight loss to ulcers. Apple cider vinegar translates to ‘sour wine of apple’ in some languages. This sour juice is packed full of essential vitamins and minerals like pectin, folic acid, biotin, pantothenic acid, vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C, niacin, sodium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and acetic acid.
Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
In most studies, the side effects of ACV has been caused by excess dosages. It is important that the prescribed amount is taken at all times. It is very important that a healthcare provider should be consulted before taking Apple Cider Vinegar.
How Much Apple Cider Vinegar Is Safe To Consume?
The recommended dose of ACV varies depending on the individual needs. If you want to take advantage of the actual health benefits of ACV, mix two tablespoons of ACV with a cup of water and consume it once a day. Experts advise consuming ACV with a straw to avoid it coming in contact with your teeth.
Let us take a look at the side effects caused by excess consumption of apple cider vinegar.
1. Low Blood Sugar Levels
The excessive use of ACV can lower the blood sugar levels as it counteracts the accumulation of excess sugar in the blood. It may cause diabetic hypoglycemia, cutting off glucose supply to the brain, and resulting in unconsciousness and even coma, in some cases. However, people suffering from type II diabetes and insulin resistance might find this activity of apple cider vinegar as a blessing.
2. Acne
One of the many purposes of taking ACV is to flush out toxins from the system. However, it can lead to acne production since the body tends to expel toxins via our skin.
3. Headaches And Nausea
The excessive use of ACV can lead to painful headaches accompanied by a feeling of nausea. This occurs because of its detoxification property that makes the brain release harmful toxins. Make sure to dilute this product before consuming it.
4. Reactions To Certain Medications
Since it is acidic in nature, ACV can easily react negatively with certain drugs like diuretics, laxatives, and insulin. It has a direct effect on insulin levels and blood sugar. Any person suffering from any health disorder should consult with their doctor before consuming ACV, as it may prove to be highly hazardous when taken with blood pressure and diabetes medications.
5. Stomach Problems
If you are using ACV for detoxification, it might cause serious diarrhea, indigestion, and heartburn due to the acidic nature of ACV. It is advised to lower the dosage if these side effects do not subside naturally.
6. Tooth Enamel Damage
Consuming undiluted ACV orally can destroy your tooth enamel, because of the high acidic level it contains, giving it a yellowish tinge. Additionally, it increases your dental sensitivity as well. Consume liquid diluted ACV using a straw, and brush your teeth immediately after intake.
7. Decreased Bone Density
The excessive use of apple cider vinegar might reduce the bone mineral density, causing your bones to be weak and brittle. People suffering from osteoporosis should consult a physician before consuming ACV.
8. A Sore Throat
The oral overuse of apple cider vinegar can eventually lead to throat irritation, caused mainly due to the presence of acetic acid in apple cider vinegar. Always dilute apple cider vinegar in water, if you are planning to use it for a prolonged period. It helps prevent the damage to our esophageal wall.
9. Tissue Damage
The excessive use of ACV may cause damage to the esophagus, tooth enamel, and stomach lining due to the high level of citric acidic content in it. Moreover, direct application of undiluted apple cider vinegar on the skin can cause irritation, rashes, and a burning sensation. It is very important to always dilute before use.
10. Decreased Potassium Levels
The high acetic acid content of ACV causes low potassium levels in the blood. This condition is called hypokalemia and may cause many associated symptoms and ailments including nausea, cramps, weakness, frequent urination, low blood pressure, changes in heart rhythm, and paralysis.
11. Lowered Mineral Levels
Using ACV to detoxify, flushes out both good and bad substances from the body. It expels a few essential nutrients like minerals which are very important for health. Prevent this from happening by taking a daily dose of multivitamins.
Consuming ACV in the correct dosages may prevent and avoid all the above-mentioned side effects.
