Last verified: 17 days ago
Apple Cider Vinegar
Also known as: ACV, fermented apple juice, acetic acid vinegar, cider vinegar
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Fermented apple juice with modest blood sugar benefits in diabetics. Most popular uses lack solid evidence.
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What it does
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by fermenting crushed apples, producing acetic acid as its main active compound. The strongest evidence from provided studies suggests it may modestly reduce...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
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Found in
Poppi Cherry Limeade, 310 Lemonade - Peach Pear, Texas SuperFood Original Capsules and 6 more
What the Science Says
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by fermenting crushed apples, producing acetic acid as its main active compound. The strongest evidence from provided studies suggests it may modestly reduce fasting blood sugar and HbA1c in people with type 2 diabetes, based on a meta-analysis of seven controlled trials. In lab settings, ACV shows antibacterial activity against drug-resistant bacteria like MRSA, though this has not been tested in humans.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't clear up eczema or improve your skin barrier — clinical trials show it caused irritation in most participants. Doesn't prevent kidney stones — a clinical trial found no benefit on urinary parameters. No proven benefit for gallstones based on a single case report. The heartburn gum study tested a multi-ingredient product, not ACV alone. No human evidence it treats PCOS. The hair extension rinse claim has zero supporting research.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May reduce fasting blood sugar and HbA1c in people with type 2 diabetes.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Shows antibacterial activity against drug-resistant MRSA bacteria in lab tests.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — the provided studies do not directly measure ACV absorption or bioavailability in humans
Red Flags to Watch For
- A case report links long-term ACV consumption to liver damage (hepatotoxicity); stop use if you notice jaundice or abdominal pain
- Topical ACV soaks caused skin irritation in 73% of study participants — do not apply undiluted to skin
- Most popular uses (weight loss, detox, skin health) are not supported by the studies provided
- The blood sugar meta-analysis included only 7 small studies with high heterogeneity — results should be interpreted cautiously
- ACV is highly acidic and may damage tooth enamel or the esophagus if consumed undiluted or in large amounts
Products Containing Apple Cider Vinegar
See how Apple Cider Vinegar is used in these analyzed products:
Poppi Cherry Limeade
Supplement
310 Lemonade - Peach Pear
Supplement
Texas SuperFood Original Capsules
Supplement
zuPoo
Supplement
Country Farms Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules
Supplement
Goli Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies
Supplement
Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules
Supplement
Eversmithorganics
Supplement
Nutrivein Premium Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules
Supplement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Apple Cider Vinegar do?
Fermented apple juice with modest blood sugar benefits in diabetics. Most popular uses lack solid evidence.
What is the effective dose of Apple Cider Vinegar?
No established dose
Is Apple Cider Vinegar safe?
A case report links long-term ACV consumption to liver damage (hepatotoxicity); stop use if you notice jaundice or abdominal pain
What doesn't Apple Cider Vinegar do?
Won't clear up eczema or improve your skin barrier — clinical trials show it caused irritation in most participants.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25