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Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help With Heartburn or Acid Reflux?

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Many of you might be wondering, can apple cider vinegar work for acid reflux or heartburn? If you’ve experienced either of these conditions, you know the feeling isn’t any fun. Both can cause pain and discomfort in the chest and digestive tract, and while there are medications you can take for them, natural interventions like ACV can also help.

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting the juice from crushed apples. At first, the juice ferments into alcohol, but after a while, the fermentation process turns it into vinegar. When the sugars from the apple juice are fermented, acetic acid (as well as other acids) are produced. Additionally, unfiltered apple cider vinegar contains something called “the mother” which is a substance that contains enzymes, probiotic bacteria, and traces of pectin fiber. All of these natural substances are what give ACV its health-boosting benefits.

ACV is touted for helping everything from digestive issues to weight loss to blood sugar imbalances. Many also suggest that apple cider vinegar for acid reflux may also work — but how?

As of now, research is lacking that proves that ACV can help specifically with acid reflux. Most of the evidence is anecdotal, but there’s something to it. Acid reflux is sometimes caused by a lack of stomach acid. According to experts at Healthline, ACV might soothe acid reflux because it helps the body produce stomach acid.

Heartburn, on the other hand, is a whole other story. Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, and it’s characterized by a burning sensation or pain in the chest area, neck, and throat. It doesn’t have anything to do with the heart, though. Rather, heartburn is caused when acid travels up the esophagus. One graduate thesis study from Arizona State University did show that ACV was effective against heartburn.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Acid Reflux or Heartburn

Consuming small amounts of ACV is generally considered safe. To try it for acid reflux or heartburn, begin by taking one to two tablespoons of ACV diluted in eight to 16 ounces of water. The taste isn’t always so pleasant, so you can always try one of these ACV infused beverage recipes instead!

If you experience digestive issues or other side effects, stop the use of ACV immediately. ACV can also weaken your tooth enamel because of the acid content, so use a straw if possible when drinking it.

Here’s to a happier, healthier tummy!

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