Although apple cider vinegar (ACV) is an arthritis-cure myth, other unrelated health benefits exist. Studies show moderate evidence that ACV may slightly lower blood sugars and inhibit appetite. There isn’t much evidence to suggest that it is specifically ACV that does this. Any vinegar may have the same effect. If you want to add ACV to your diet and have arthritis, there is no harm.
ACV is made from the juice of apples. It contains acetic acid, like all kinds of vinegar, and small amounts of the nutritional plant compounds found in apples.
There is no evidence that ACV affects arthritis, and there are no studies specifically for apple cider vinegar and arthritis.
Why do some people claim apple cider vinegar can be used for arthritis?
A British woman in the 1960s was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis while studying to become a nurse. Later, after she finished her training, she was also diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Frustrated with the medical system at the time only offering her aspirin, she tried various holistic remedies and claimed she cured herself of pain. ACV, molasses, Epsom bath salts and nutritional supplements were the basis of her arthritis “cure”.
There is much more knowledge nowadays about arthritis, and several medicines are routinely used to manage rheumatoid arthritis. We also know stress plays a prominent role in pain, and healthy body weight and exercise are fundamental to managing osteoarthritis.
Tips on how to take apple cider vinegar:
–Always dilute your ACV in water or combine it with other foods. The undiluted acidity may damage tooth enamel and other tissues, particularly if you have a lot of vinegary foods in your diet, like pickles.
–Long-term use may lower your potassium. If you are on medication for heart failure, make sure you talk to your doctor first and monitor your potassium levels.
-If you are on blood sugar-lowering medications, talk to your doctor and monitor your blood sugars closely, as it might lower your blood sugars even more. Your medication may need to be adjusted.
How to take it: 30 ml daily, spread over meals. E.g. two teaspoons at three meals daily, always diluted in water or with other foods such as salad dressings or smoothies.
