7 of the Worst Mistakes People Make When Taking Apple Cider Vinegar

Last Updated on December 6, 2020

Apple cider vinegar boasts incredible health and beauty benefits and it even seems to have endless applications. Many of us have turned to this acidic substance to treat skin problems and help with health issues, such as high cholesterol, heart problems, diabetes, and some types of cancer, not to mention ACV’s uses in cooking and cleaning.

Everyone talks about why you should use and consume apple cider vinegar, but surprisingly, the vinegar can end up causing more harm than good if used in the wrong ways.

To stay healthy and reap the amazing benefits of apple cider vinegar, here are eight things you should never do while taking it.

#1 – Taking undiluted apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar boasts astonishing health benefits, but let’s face it, it tastes quite awful.

For this exact reason, some people prefer taking it in one quick undiluted shot that’s instantly followed by some food or beverage to get rid of the bitter taste of vinegar. But, in fact, this method will end up causing more harm than good.

The high level of acid in undiluted shots of apple cider vinegar can cause severe irritation and damage to the stomach and esophagus.

To reap off the amazing health benefits of apple cider vinegar and avoid harming yourself, you should always dilute it, preferably using ten parts water for one part vinegar.

#2 – Drinking apple cider vinegar immediately after eating

Taking apple cider vinegar after meals is a common mistake that people need to stop making already. In fact, drinking ACV on an empty stomach is the best way to benefit from what this wonderful vinegar has to offer.

While certain foods can make the vinegar less effective, consuming it before meals can enhance its benefits as well as its ability to help your body process food.

It’s best to avoid eating twenty minutes after taking apple cider vinegar so you can allow it to be digested properly.

#3 – Inhaling the smell of apple cider vinegar

The worst way to make apple cider vinegar enter your body is by inhaling it. Although the vinegar can do wonders for your digestive tract and heart health, it can cause severe damage to your lungs, including burning sensations.

So be careful and avoid breathing it in when drinking it. Just stick to drinking and don’t forget to dilute it first.

#4 – Drinking lots of apple cider vinegar

So you shouldn’t drink it undiluted, you shouldn’t inhale it, and you also shouldn’t take swigs of it! Seriously, apple cider vinegar can still be very acidic even when diluted and its acid content can harm your tooth enamel.

To stay safe, it’s best to drink your diluted apple cider vinegar using a straw to minimize the drink’s contact with your tooth enamel.

Moreover, experts recommend avoiding brushing your teeth for at least half an hour after taking the vinegar.

#5 – Drinking apple cider vinegar right before bedtime

Drinking ACV before eating is beneficial, but taking it right before bed is definitely not. This is because apple cider vinegar can easily find its way back up your esophagus while you’re lying down. Besides the terribly annoying sensations it can cause, the acid can also harm your esophagus.

To keep your esophagus safe and comfortable, avoid sleeping or laying down for at least half an hour after drinking apple cider vinegar.

#6 – Taking apple cider vinegar when you suffer from Helicobacter pylori

Although apple cider vinegar is famous for its amazing ability to boost your digestive health, it can worsen some stomach conditions. People who have H. pylori, which is the bacteria associated with ulcers, can suffer from much more irritation in case they take apple cider vinegar.

Make sure to consult your doctor if you notice any uncomfortable side effects or have doubts.

#7 – Applying apple cider vinegar directly to your skin

Apple cider vinegar boasts loads of beauty benefits, including sunburn relief, banishing dandruff, treating infections, removing blemishes, and getting rid of acne. However, there’s also a wrong way to apply this vinegar on your skin.

You should never apply undiluted ACV on your skin. The high level of acid can damage your skin, kill skin cells, and cause semi-permanent burns.
Whether you’re using apple cider vinegar to boost your health or treat your skin, you should always dilute it.

BONUS: you can also use diluted ACV as a natural toner.

Feel free to share this article with people you know and leave a comment if you have any other ACV tips or uses in mind.

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