How to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Safely: Dosage, Timing, and Risks

Quick Answer: The safest way to drink apple cider vinegar (ACV) is to dilute 1–2 tablespoons in a large glass of water, take it before meals or in the morning, and avoid drinking it straight. While ACV can support digestion, blood sugar, and overall wellness, overdoing it can irritate your throat, damage teeth, and upset your stomach.

Why You Should Never Drink ACV Straight

Apple cider vinegar is very acidic (acetic acid). If you drink it undiluted, it can:

  • Burn or irritate your throat and esophagus

  • Weaken tooth enamel

  • Cause nausea or stomach discomfort

Always dilute it — this is the #1 safety rule.

The Right Dosage

Research and expert recommendations suggest:

  • Start small: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) in water

  • Standard dose: 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) per day

  • Upper safe limit: No more than 2 tablespoons per serving and 2–3 tablespoons total per day

Best Time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar

  • Morning (before breakfast) – Kickstarts digestion and metabolism

  • Before meals – May help with appetite control and blood sugar balance

  • Avoid bedtime – Drinking ACV right before lying down can worsen reflux

How to Drink It Safely

✅ Dilute it – Mix ACV with at least 8–10 oz of water
✅ Use a straw – Protects teeth from acid exposure
✅ Rinse mouth afterward – Swish with water to protect enamel
✅ Pair with food – Gentler on the stomach if taken with meals

Who Should Be Careful?

  • People with acid reflux or ulcers – ACV can sometimes worsen symptoms

  • Diabetics – ACV may interact with blood sugar meds

  • People taking diuretics or potassium-lowering drugs

Always check with a healthcare provider if you have medical conditions.

Possible Side Effects of Overdoing It

  • Tooth enamel erosion

  • Throat irritation

  • Lower potassium levels (rare but possible with high intake)

  • Stomach upset

The Bottom Line

Apple cider vinegar can be safe and beneficial — but more is not better. Stick with 1–2 tablespoons diluted in water per day, and avoid drinking it straight.

Recommended Product

For the safest and most effective results, always choose a pure, raw ACV:

👉 Fairchild’s Apple Cider Vinegar — orchard-to-bottle, raw, unfiltered, and packed with “The Mother.”

It’s the premium choice trusted by experts worldwide.

Back to blog