Apple cider vinegar is a popular natural remedy that offers numerous health benefits. Made from fermented apple juice, this vinegar contains acetic acid, probiotics, enzymes, and a variety of vitamins and minerals that can positively impact your body.
Many people use apple cider vinegar for weight loss, controlling blood sugar levels, improving digestion, and enhancing skin health. However, to fully harness its benefits and avoid potential side effects, it’s crucial to understand when the best time to consume apple cider vinegar is.
When is the Right Time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar?
The optimal time to consume apple cider vinegar largely depends on your intended purpose. While there is limited clinical evidence regarding the perfect timing, several studies and personal experiences suggest that the benefits of apple cider vinegar can vary based on when and how it’s consumed.
In the Morning
Drinking apple cider vinegar in the morning is often recommended, especially for those aiming to lose weight or regulate blood sugar. A clinical trial involving overweight and obese participants found that consuming one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar every morning for 4 to 12 weeks led to significant health improvements.
The study showed a marked decrease in several health indicators, including:
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Blood sugar levels
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Body mass index (BMI)
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Body weight
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Waist and hip circumference
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Total cholesterol levels
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Triglyceride levels
However, as related research is still limited, further studies are required to confirm the effectiveness of consuming apple cider vinegar in the morning.
Before Meals
Another popular time to consume apple cider vinegar is before meals. Many believe that drinking it before eating can help control appetite and stabilize blood sugar levels. A small-scale study suggests that apple cider vinegar may slow down gastric emptying, potentially reducing glucose spikes after meals.
Although the findings are promising, scientific evidence remains limited. If you want to try this approach, you can dissolve one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it 15-20 minutes before eating.
Before Bed
Some studies have suggested that drinking vinegar before bed can help reduce fasting blood sugar levels, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. However, it’s important to note that these studies did not specifically use apple cider vinegar, but vinegar in general.
Additionally, drinking vinegar before bed may increase the risk of digestive issues such as stomach irritation or acid reflux, especially if consumed on an empty stomach or undiluted.
Apple cider vinegar does offer various health benefits, particularly when consumed at the right times. However, always ensure that you dilute it with water to avoid any adverse effects on your stomach.
If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s best to consult with a doctor before incorporating apple cider vinegar into your daily routine. You can also use the health consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr Hanifa Rahma
Alexandra Benisek (2024). Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good for Health?. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/diet/apple-cider-vinegar-and-your-health
Erica Julson, MS, RDN, CLT (2023). Apple Cider Vinegar Dosage: How Much Should You Drink per Day?. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/apple-cider-vinegar-dosage
Megan Nunn, PharmD (2025). When Is the Best Time to Take Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss?. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-take-apple-cider-vinegar-11707133