Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cause Diarrhea?

In this article, we’ll focus on the query “Can apple cider vinegar cause diarrhea?” Also, we’ll discuss why it may cause diarrhea, why apple cider vinegar is ingested, and what can be done to treat diarrhea caused by ingesting apple cider vinegar.

Can apple cider vinegar cause diarrhea?

Yes, apple cider vinegar can cause diarrhea. Ingesting too large a portion at a given moment may trigger diarrhea, although the exact reasons why may vary from individual to individual.

Some people experience loose stools after consuming apple cider vinegar, and it is known to be an irritant to the skin, the throat, esophagus, and stomach lining, when consumed undiluted.

As such, consuming apple cider vinegar may also trigger other symptoms of indigestion, such as heartburn, or an upset stomach.

Why does apple cider vinegar cause diarrhea?

Apple cider vinegar may induce diarrhea in some consumers, whose digestive system may react to its acidity.

In some cases, the high intake of sugar that comes with a high intake of apple cider vinegar may induce peristalsis (movement of digestive muscles that makes food travel throughout the digestive system).

Sometimes when apple cider vinegar is consumed without being watered down, it may draw water into the intestines, which makes stool loose. As apple cider vinegar is made from apples, which are high in pectin, this substance may “pull” water into the digestive tract. The effects of pectin can be reduced by diluting the vinegar before drinking it.

The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar may also lower the number of good bacteria in a person’s digestive tract, which may lead to side effects such as diarrhea and poor digestion.

Why is apple cider vinegar ingested?

Apple cider vinegar is consumed for many reasons, among them:

Bactericidal activity – perhaps ironically, some people consume apple cider vinegar to combat digestive tract infections and symptoms such as diarrhea. Its acidity is used to discourage bacteria and mold from growing on pickled food products, and as it is edible, some maintain that it can also treat harmful microbes in one’s gut.

It is reputed to help regulate blood sugar levels in diabetic patients – studies (although small ones) have shown that ingesting apple cider vinegar may increase sensitivity to insulin, which is important for diabetic patients looking to moderate the amount of sugar in their blood.
Apple cider vinegar may also aid in weight loss – it is thought to promote the feeling of satiety, which may lead to a lower calorie intake and ultimately weight loss.

Despite these benefits, many users may encounter side effects such as irritation, burns, and indigestion, all from using high amounts of apple cider vinegar as a home remedy.

If opting to experiment with home remedies based on apple cider vinegar, it’s best to start with low volumes and find a tolerance threshold, rather than risk suffering serious side effects.

How can I treat diarrhea caused by ingesting apple cider vinegar?

Treating this condition may require one to lower the total amount of apple cider ingested, or even stop consuming it altogether. This should help stool regain its usual consistency unless it is being caused by a pathogen or another condition, in which case diarrhea may not be an exclusive or isolated symptom.

It’s important to replenish fluids and electrolytes, as diarrhea can easily lead to dehydration, on account of water leaching into the digestive tract.

If diarrhea persists, over-the-counter medication may be used to treat it, such as loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol).

Lastly, if there are very few signs of improvement, it may be necessary to consult with a general practitioner and have additional medication prescribed.

Other FAQs about Vinegar that you may be interested in.

Can you eat vinegar with an ulcer?

Can you eat vinegar with braces?

Can you eat vinegar with milk?

Can you eat vinegar with pancreatitis?

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve focused on the query “Can apple cider vinegar cause diarrhea?” Also, we have discussed why apple cider vinegar may cause diarrhea, why apple cider vinegar is ingested, and what can be done to treat diarrhea caused by ingesting apple cider vinegar.