Is It Safe To Take Apple Cider Vinegar While Breastfeeding?

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Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by processing apple cider, a fermented liquid derived from apple juice. It is common for many women to consider apple cider vinegar while breastfeeding due to its numerous health benefits. ACV is found to have the therapeutic properties of acetic acid, micronutrients, enzymes, and bioactive substances, making it a medically significant product (1). However, you might be wondering if you can consume apple cider vinegar while breastfeeding, and if so, does it affect the baby.

This post discusses ACV consumption during breastfeeding, including its safety, potential health benefits, adverse effects, and more.

Is It Safe To Use Apple Cider Vinegar When Breastfeeding?

Yes, organic, filtered, and pasteurized apple cider vinegar is safe to use when breastfeeding.

Raw and unpasteurized ACV can have several nutrients, but it might also contain bacteria from raw apple juice (2).

It is not entirely known if maternal consumption of the unpasteurized ACV has any effect on the baby’s health. But if bacteria affect the health of a lactating mother, then it might indirectly affect the breastfeeding baby as well.

Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar While Breastfeeding

Apple cider vinegar is considered to have acetic acid, pectin, multivitamins such as vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, biotin, and vitamin C.

It is also believed to have several bioactive compounds such as polyphenols that possess antioxidant activities (3).

1. Weight loss: The use of ACV might help in losing weight. A research study published in the Journal of Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, found that acetic acid could suppress body fat accumulation in animals. The study concluded that the daily intake of vinegar might be useful in reducing obesity that in turn, will help in the prevention of metabolic syndrome (4).

2. Regulates sugar: Acetic acid, as the base ingredient of vinegar, has shown to affect glucose metabolism and absorption, and thereby helps in blood sugar management (5). Besides, it has also shown to improve the functioning of pancreatic beta-cells in rats. Additionally, its effects on delayed gastric emptying post the intake of starchy meals has also been demonstrated in healthy individuals (6).

3. Digestive health: Apple cider vinegar, taken regularly, might help in maintaining gut health (3). It is believed to help enhance the gut microbiome due to its probiotic nature, potentially aiding digestion and reducing symptoms of bloating and discomfort. Regular consumption may promote better gut flora balance, essential for overall digestive health (17). However, there are limited clinical studies on its usefulness for digestive health. It is good to consult a doctor if you plan to take ACV for digestive health.

4. Improves immunity: A research study published in the International Journal of Vitamin and Nutrition Research attributed acetic acid to ACV’s antimicrobial properties that contribute to its immune system support (7) (8). Another study has demonstrated the immunomodulatory properties of cider vinegar (9).

A mom shares her positive experience with apple cider vinegar (ACV) and how it helped her with allergies while nursing. She explains a specific method her doctor suggested for preparing the ACV mixture, “Warm up half a cup of water, shake up your apple cider vinegar again, shake it up real good, measure two spoons and put them in the water, and that’s it. While I was nursing, I did this, and it worked well. I continued to take it sporadically over the course of 12 months of nursing (i).”

5. Heart health: A research study suggested that ACV can possibly help in lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of ACV has shown to lower the LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the serum (3). A study published in the Journal of Membrane Biology says that ACV possesses free radical scavenging properties and inhibits lipids peroxidation that is required to reduce serum lipid levels (10).

6. Detoxification: Apple cider vinegar, used medicinally, can help detoxify the body. Its regular use can also help restore the body’s pH balance (3).

Possible Side-Effects Of ACV When Breastfeeding

Apple cider vinegar could cause side effects that might affect breastfeeding. A few of them are (11):

1. Low potassium levels: Excessive consumption of ACV is associated with low potassium levels. If you take medications for high blood pressure (generally diuretics), then apple cider vinegar intake can worsen the levels of potassium.

2. Low sugar levels: Apple cider vinegar is known to regulate sugar levels in people with diabetes. However, you should be cautious about the quantity of ACV since it can have a possible interaction with insulin. This interaction might cause a negative fluctuation in sugar levels, thus posing a threat to your health and overall well-being.

3. Digestive issues: ACV may cause stomach discomfort in some individuals. It is also believed to exacerbate the symptoms of acid reflux if consumed undiluted or in excess quantities (12).

4. Dental problems: ACV is acidic. Therefore, the consumption of too much ACV could harm one’s teeth by eroding the enamel, making it more susceptible to wear and tear (13).

Before incorporating apple cider vinegar into your diet while breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant. Personalized guidance can help ensure that you make informed choices that prioritize your health and the well-being of your baby.

Precautions To Take While Taking Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is likely safe to use. However, to mitigate the risk of any side-effects, you may follow these precautions.

1. Buy only organic, filtered, and pasteurized apple cider vinegar from a reputable brand.
2. Dilute the vinegar with water. Undiluted ACV is acidic and can burn the tissues of your mouth and throat. The recommended dilution is two tablespoons (30ml) of cider vinegar to 8oz (237ml) of water for safe consumption (14).
3. Consume cider vinegar in moderate amounts only. Excessive use can cause low mineral density.
4. Always rinse your mouth after consuming ACV, even if it is diluted. It will ensure that the pH of the oral cavity is maintained, and thus, tooth enamel damage is counteracted.
5. If you are planning to use ACV topically, then use it only in the diluted form to avoid any burns to your skin.

Simple Recipes Using Apple Cider Vinegar, For Breastfeeding Mothers

1. Honey and apple cider vinegar drink

This recipe is a perfect addition to your early morning routine. The sweetness of honey with the tanginess of apple cider vinegar is a unique combination that lightens up your lazy mornings, adds a boost of hydration, and gets you going.

You will need:

• 2 cups of water
• ½tsp of organic honey
• 1tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1tsp lemon juice
• A dash of red pepper
• Ice cubes

How to:

1. Pour the water into a glass and add the ingredients to the solution. Mix well.
2. Add ice cubes to flavor it. Your detox drink is ready.

Tip: You can add one teaspoon of chia seeds to this recipe. If you plan to add chia seeds for breastfeeding mothers, then keep the drink refrigerated for 15-20 minutes before consuming it.

2. Herbal tea with apple cider vinegar

It is a good addition to your diet after a meal or early evening routine. The calming effects of herbal tea while breastfeeding with the zesty flavor of ACV can make you feel refreshed after an exhaustive day.

You will need:

• 1tsp apple cider vinegar
• ½tsp lemon juice
• 2-3 drops of honey
• 1 green tea bag
• Sliced ginger strips
• A dash of cinnamon

How to:

1. Prepare one cup of green tea and steep it in water for about three to four minutes.
2. Filter the tea in a cup and add the remaining ingredients. Mix well before consuming.

3. Apple cider vinegar salad dressing

This recipe is a valuable addition to your salads. Drizzle this dressing over your vegetable or chicken salad and enjoy the tangy flavor.

You will need:

• ¼ cup cider vinegar
• 1tsp lemon juice
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1tsp red pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to:

1. Whisk apple cider vinegar, red pepper, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
2. Slowly add the olive oil to the mixture and stir it well.
3. Season the salad dressing with salt and pepper.
4. You can also refrigerate the content in an air-tight container and mix it with freshly chopped salad vegetables.

Illustration: Is It Safe To Take Apple Cider Vinegar While Breastfeeding?

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