Best time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss

If you’re reading this, you likely already know about the benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar.

But do you know the best time to drink it for weight loss?

Whatever you consume while trying to lose weight can be optimized for better results.

Timing your intake to align with your body’s needs can help you make the most of the nutrients in your food and drinks.

This is particularly true for apple cider vinegar.

Let’s explore the ideal time to drink apple cider vinegar to enhance your weight loss efforts.

What is the Best Time To Drink Apple Cider Vinegar For Weight Loss?

There’s some research that suggests apple cider vinegar (ACV) can slow down how quickly your stomach empties food.

Based on this, drinking a mixture of ACV about 15 minutes before each main meal might help you with your weight loss goals.

Drinking it before meals allows the ACV to start working on slowing down how quickly your stomach empties as you eat.

This can make you feel fuller and might help you eat less during the meal.

Also Read: Best Time To Drink Ginger Lemon Tea For Weight Loss

Optimal Times To Drink Apple Cider Vinegar For Weight Loss

In the Morning

if you have issues like indigestion or heartburn, it could be better for you to take your ACV in the morning when your stomach is empty.

This way, your body has enough time to digest the ACV properly, since it’s quite acidic, falling at 2 to 3 on a pH scale of 0 to 14.

Here’s a quick guide to the pH scale for your reference:

• 0.0–6.9 is acidic

• 7.0 is neutral

• 7.1–14.0 is alkaline (also known as basic)

15 minutes Before Meals

As mentioned earlier, drinking ACV can potentially delay gastric emptying.

This means that if you consume ACV before your meals, it can help you feel full quicker during your meal.

As a result, you might end up eating less than usual, which can naturally reduce your calorie intake.

This helps with portion control without the need for conscious effort, as you may feel satisfied sooner and not wish to eat more.

Also Read: Does Meal Timing Matter For Weight Loss?

Before Bed

This timing is particularly useful for people with type 2 diabetes.

Studies have shown that drinking a glass of ACV before bed can improve waking blood glucose levels.

Utilizing ACV in this way can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and support your weight loss routine.

However, it’s important to remember that ACV is not a substitute for medication. Always consult with your doctor before adding ACV to your regimen if you have type 2 diabetes.

Also Read: Best Sleeping Position for Weight Loss

How to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you incorporate it into your routine:

Step 1: Choose the Right Type

Buy raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the “mother” (the cloudy substance at the bottom of the bottle). This type contains beneficial enzymes and probiotics.

Step 2: Measure the Right Amount

The recommended starting dosage is 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of ACV per day.

If your body tolerates it well, you can gradually increase it to 2 tablespoons (30 ml) per day.

Step 3: Dilute the Vinegar

Dilute ACV before consuming it to prevent potential harm to your esophagus and teeth.

Mix 1-2 tablespoons of ACV with at least one cup (8 ounces) of water.

Some people prefer to dilute it in a larger amount of water to further reduce the acidity.

Step 4: Improve the Taste

If you find the taste too strong, try these variations:

• Add Honey: A teaspoon of honey can make the mixture more palatable and add a touch of sweetness.

• Lemon Juice: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the mix for a refreshing twist.

• Warm Water: Using warm (not hot) water can help blend the flavors better and make the drink more soothing.

Step 5: Monitor Your Body’s Response

Pay attention to how your body reacts. If you experience any discomfort, reduce the amount or frequency. Always listen to your body.

Important Tips

• Use a Straw: To protect your teeth from the acid, consider drinking through a straw.

• Rinse Your Mouth: After drinking ACV, rinse your mouth with water to protect your tooth enamel.

• Consult Your Doctor: If you have any health conditions or are on medication, check with your doctor before starting.

Potential Downsides of Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss

Exaggerated Claims with Limited Research

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is often praised as a miracle solution for weight loss, but many of these claims are overstated and not well-supported by scientific evidence.

While there are some small studies and personal stories suggesting that ACV might help with weight loss, the overall research is limited and not very strong.

Most of the studies on ACV are small, short-term, and often conducted on animals rather than people. This means that the results might not apply to everyone.

Some of the claims are based on the presence of acetic acid, which is also found in other types of vinegar, making it hard to say that ACV is special.

It’s important to be cautious about using ACV for weight loss and not rely on it as a quick fix.

Real weight loss usually comes from eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and making healthy lifestyle choices.

Tooth Enamel Erosion

Apple cider vinegar’s high acidity poses a significant risk to dental health. The acid can gradually erode tooth enamel, the hard outer layer that protects teeth.

This erosion can make teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures and increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay.

To mitigate this risk, it’s important to dilute ACV with water and use a straw to minimize contact with teeth.

Additionally, rinsing your mouth with water after consuming ACV and waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth can help protect enamel.

Lowered Potassium Levels

Regular consumption of ACV can potentially lead to hypokalemia, a condition where potassium levels in the blood become too low.

Potassium is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle contractions, nerve signals, and fluid balance.

Symptoms of low potassium levels include muscle weakness, cramping, fatigue, and irregular heart rhythms.

Severe hypokalemia can be dangerous and requires medical attention.

People with existing conditions or those taking medications that affect potassium levels should be particularly cautious.

Slow Digestion

Apple cider vinegar has been shown to slow down gastric emptying, the process by which food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine.

While this can lead to a prolonged feeling of fullness, which might aid in weight loss, it can also cause delayed digestion.

Symptoms of slowed digestion include bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort.

For individuals with gastroparesis, a condition that already causes slow stomach emptying, consuming ACV can worsen symptoms and lead to further complications.

If you experience any digestive discomfort after using ACV, consider reducing the amount or frequency of consumption and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Conclusion

The best time to drink apple cider vinegar for weight loss is 15 minutes before meals. It can help you feel fuller and eat less, which might help you lose weight.

But remember, it’s important to dilute it with water to protect your teeth and stomach. And while it’s a popular home remedy, it’s not a magic solution.

A healthy diet and regular exercise are still the most effective ways to lose weight.

Always check with your doctor before starting any new health routine, especially if you have health issues or take medication.

FAQ

Is it better to drink apple cider vinegar in the morning or at night?

You can drink apple cider vinegar either in the morning or at night. Some people prefer it in the morning to help with digestion and to start their day with a healthy habit. Others find it beneficial at night as it may help control blood sugar levels while sleeping

When should you drink apple cider vinegar to lose belly fat?

To help with belly fat loss, it’s best to drink apple cider vinegar about 15 minutes before meals. This can make you feel fuller sooner, which may help you eat less during meals and, in turn, contribute to weight loss.

How many days does it take to lose weight with apple cider vinegar?

Drinking apple cider vinegar alone won’t lead to weight loss. Losing weight effectively involves a comprehensive approach, including maintaining a caloric deficit, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management.

What happens if you drink apple cider vinegar every morning with an empty stomach?

Drinking apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach each morning doesn’t produce any specific benefits. It’s important to be skeptical of bold claims like “cleansing” or “detoxing” your body, as these are often not supported by robust research.

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