Apple Cider Vinegar Side Effects

In recent years, apple cider vinegar has become a popular natural supplement for treating a number of different health conditions. It is most commonly used for leg cramps or pain, upset stomach, sinus problems, sore throat, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis, or to rid the body of toxins and the slow the aging process. It is also commonly used on its own or in combination with honey as a treatment for weak bones caused by osteoporosis. Sometimes it is also applied to the skin to treat acne, sunburns, insect bites, and shingles. Apple cider vinegar is made from the fermented juice of crushed apples, and, like apple juice, it contains a number of healthy vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B1, B2, and B6, niacin, folic acid, and vitamin C as well as several others in smaller concentrations. Because very few studies have been done, however, the effects and benefits of this supplement have not been proven. Further study is also required in order to fully understand apple cider side effects as well.

Because the benefits and effects of apple cider vinegar have not been thoroughly studied, it is not known whether or not the supplement is safe when regularly taken as a medical supplement. In fact, some studies have shown that consuming just 8 ounces of apple cider vinegar each day on an on-going basis may lead to problems like osteoporosis and low potassium. One report has shown that a person who took 250 mL of apple cider vinegar each day for 6 years developed weak bones and low potassium levels. Another woman experienced tenderness and pain in her voice box and difficulty swallowing that lasted for 6 months after having an apple cider vinegar tablet stuck in her throat for 30 minutes. In this case, doctors believe that the damage was caused by the high acid content of the tablet.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take apple cider vinegar supplements because not enough is known about the supplement's safety. Those with diabetes also should avoid the use of apple cider vinegar because there is a concern that high dosages or long-term usage of apple cider vinegar can increase the loss of potassium in people with diabetes. Until further study is performed, there is little information regarding the frequency and severity of all side effects that may be caused by apple cider vinegar.