Apple cider vinegar and honey is an old combination passed down as a home remedy by grandparents and alternative medicine practitioners to soothe colds, coughs, and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It is a popular remedy, as many people turn to natural methods to heal their ailments.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey
Apple cider vinegar and honey contain polyphenolic compounds that have beneficial effects on health.
1. May Aid in Weight Loss
A 12-week research study showed that obese adults who consumed 30 ml (approximately 2 tablespoons) or 15 ml (approximately 1 tablespoon) of vinegar mixed in 500 ml of water daily observed a decrease in body weight, body fat percentage, and triglycerides. Research also indicates that vinegar intake helps regulate blood sugar levels and can keep you feeling full longer. This is one of the reasons why there are so many detox and weight loss diets that use apple cider vinegar.
2. Helps Soothe Coughs and Seasonal Allergies
Honey is commonly used in folk medicine to treat inflammation, coughs, and allergies. Honey and lemon juice diluted in water are often administered to soothe throat pain due to their strong antimicrobial properties. In one study, young children (ages 2-5) suffering from upper respiratory tract infections were given honey (2 teaspoons) at bedtime. It helped reduce coughing and allowed them to sleep better. The study also found that honey could be as effective as a common cough suppressant ingredient, dextromethorphan.
Additionally, researchers discovered that honey may help alleviate symptoms associated with seasonal allergies, such as hay fever.
There is no research indicating that apple cider vinegar can help alleviate coughs and colds. However, it is known that acetic acid, one of the main components of vinegar, has antimicrobial properties.
3. May Improve Heart Health
Apple cider vinegar may significantly reduce some risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. Research suggests that apple cider vinegar can help suppress obesity-induced oxidative stress due to its natural antioxidant content. Increased oxidative stress and obesity can greatly elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Moreover, a study on rats showed that administering apple cider vinegar for nine weeks resulted in a significant decrease in triglyceride and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.
Another study indicated that twelve weeks of aerobic exercise combined with daily apple cider vinegar intake led to a significant reduction in inflammatory biomarkers. It also lowered LDL cholesterol.
Similarly, honey is rich in natural phenolic compounds, such as quercetin, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), and kaempferol, to name a few, all of which have demonstrated therapeutic potential in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. CAPE, one of the main medicinal components of bee propolis, has been shown to lower blood pressure in laboratory animals.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey?
If you intend to consume this natural mixture for health reasons, it is recommended to do so for a month and then take a break to avoid potential side effects such as tooth enamel erosion. Additionally, organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar and raw honey may provide maximum benefits, according to anecdotal evidence. Preparation method:
Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey in a cup.
After mixing, fill the cup with warm water.
If desired, you can flavor it with ginger, mint, or any of your favorite herbs and spices. There is no ideal time for consumption. You can drink it either in the morning upon waking, before bed, or between meals.
Risks and Side Effects
Although side effects are not well-documented, here are some potential downsides of daily consumption of apple cider vinegar and honey.
High in Sugar: Honey is high in calories and sugar. One tablespoon of honey contains nearly 64 calories, according to the USDA. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation, especially in a weight loss program.
Nausea: Apple cider vinegar may cause nausea in some individuals, which can act as an appetite suppressant. However, this method should not be used if you feel sick after consuming apple cider vinegar with honey.
Tooth Enamel Erosion: According to the American Dental Association, excessive consumption of acidic substances, such as apple cider vinegar, can lead to tooth enamel erosion.
Drug Interactions: Be cautious if you are taking insulin, diabetes medications, diuretics, or digoxin, as too much vinegar may interfere with these medications. Consult your doctor before adding apple cider vinegar to your daily regimen.
