Apple cider vinegar

Patient sheet

Apple cider vinegar is derived from the fermentation of apple juice. It contains pectin, certain vitamins (e.g., vitamins B and C), as well as acetic and citric acid. It is primarily used for its antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, and appetite-suppressant properties. When used for medicinal purposes, it is generally taken orally in tablet, capsule, or liquid form.

Other names

• Cider vinegar

Common uses

• Dandruff (applied to the skin)
• Diabetes
• Eczema (applied to the skin)
• Improved athletic performance
• Kidney stones
• Sore throat
• Weight loss

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent applications.

Recommended doses of natural health products may vary depending on the product's form. To avoid confusion regarding dosage, read the information on the product's packaging and seek advice from your health care provider.

Side effects

Apple cider vinegar is generally well tolerated in small quantities. However, when taken orally in liquid form, it may irritate the throat, stomach, and tooth enamel. When applied to the skin, it can also cause irritation and even burns. If you think you're experiencing side effects, speak to your health care provider.

Warnings

Natural health products are not without risk. They may be incompatible with certain health issues or interact with your medications. Always speak with a health care professional before taking this product, especially in the following cases:

• You are diabetic
• You have abnormally low levels of potassium in your bloodstream

Always inform your health care providers of your existing health issues, and make sure to mention any medications that you're taking, either on a regular or irregular basis, including non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and natural health products.

If you're taking a medication for a specific health condition, do not attempt to replace it with a natural health product without first consulting a health care professional, such as your doctor or pharmacist.

General notes

Make sure to inform your health care providers if any of the following apply:

• You have allergies (e.g., medication, food)
• You're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or you're breastfeeding
• You use tobacco, cannabis or cannabis derivatives, or recreational drugs

Keeping a list of your current medications with you at all times is strongly recommended. It may come in handy if you need to see a health care professional or call emergency services.

As with medication, store your natural health products out of reach of children and pets, and return unused or expired products to the pharmacy for safe disposal.