When it comes to apple cider vinegar (ACV) the many uses are both ancient and well known. Due to its powerful properties, apple cider vinegar has been used to whiten teeth, promote healthy hair growth, soothe swelling and inflammation, cleanse skin and remove bad breath (among MANY other things). So, it should be no surprise, that the household staple may provide relief for heartburn sufferers as well.
How It Works
For those who experience acid reflux due to low amounts of stomach acid, ACV can introduce more acid into the digestive tract, in turn, acting as an anti-microbial agent, balancing your stomach pH levels and reducing reflux.
Those very same acidic properties also aid in digestion by breaking down the fats (from those game day wings), preventing heartburn.
A 2015 study also found that raw or unfiltered ACV may prevent heartburn altogether. However, more research is needed to determine whether apple cider vinegar is a consistent and reputable way to treat acid reflux.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Heartburn Relief
ACV with Water
Mix 2 tablespoons of ACV with 8 ounces of water.
Drink before meals or whenever heartburn strikes.
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ACV with Baking Soda
When added to baking soda, ACV can help neutralize acid without causing harmful dental sensitivity and eventually enamel erosion.
Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of ACV in 250 mg of water.
Stir well and drink it 2 to 3 times a day on an empty stomach for at least 5 days for acid reflux relief.
ACV with Honey
Since ACV isn’t exactly the best tasting, add honey to taste. High in potassium, a high-quality honey aids in neutralizing stomach acids and cures acid reflux.
Mix 2 tablespoons each of apple cider vinegar and honey.
Drink mixture in the event of heartburn or acid reflux.
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Don’t Sleep On White Distilled Vinegar…
Made from grain and diluted with water the concoction is 5% acidity, which helps to break down the food and aids in better digestion, offering relief from acid reflux.
Add one teaspoon of white vinegar to a cup of water.
Mix well and drink for immediate relief.
Or, give your morning smoothie, salad dressing, orange juice, etc. a boost by adding white vinegar to prevent the onset of reflux symptoms.
Potential Side Effects
However, it is important to note that some people may experience side effects after consuming apple cider vinegar, including:
- Tooth erosion
- Worsen ulcers
- Blood thinning
- Throat irritation
- Decreased potassium
These side effects may be worse if you use undiluted or large amounts of ACV.
READ: Apple Cider Vinegar: 13 Uses For It That Will Change Your Life
When using ACV, also keep in mind that it may interact with prescription meds and may cause adverse side effects when combined with:
- Diuretics
- Laxatives
- Heart disease medication
- Diabetes drugs
Consult your doctor before using apple cider vinegar for heartburn relief or frequent internal use.
