Pregnancy is a time when the mother faces a lot of discomfort with the body. This may be because of hormonal imbalances and the weakening of the immune system. Because of this, the pregnant lady is vulnerable to many infections and diseases. Hence doctors suggest pregnant women follow a strict diet and products that are nutritious and beneficial for both the mother and the unborn baby. One such product to consume during pregnancy is apple cider vinegar. This article will discuss the benefits of apple cider vinegar elaborately during pregnancy and the associated risks.
What is ACV and How is it Made?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a vinegar made from fermented, crushed apple juice. The cider first ferments to alcohol before turning into acetic acid. This acetic acid is called apple cider vinegar. This is sold in two forms pasteurized and unpasteurized. The pasteurized vinegar is safe to consume as it is free from any harmful bacteria. This vinegar can be used for different purposes like salads, sandwiches, etc. Remember, not to drink this vinegar without diluting as it may burn your oesophagus when consumed raw.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe During Pregnancy?
Drinking apple cider vinegar during pregnancy can be safe only if the pregnant lady consumes pasteurized vinegar in dilution with water. The study says that there are no shreds of evidence stating that drinking apple cider vinegar is safe or unsafe. However, drinking pasteurized apple cider vinegar in a limited amount and diluting it with water is only safe for pregnant women because the unpasteurized ones contain harmful bacteria that may affect the fetus inside the mother.
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Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar During Pregnancy:
Apple cider vinegar, when consumed in a moderate amount, is recommended because of its immunity-boosting benefits. Here are listed a few of them:
1. Morning Sickness:
Women during pregnancy usually face morning sickness.ACV is pH neutral and helps the acids in the stomach to settle down, which reduces nausea. Therefore, ACV relieves morning sickness, mostly in the first trimester.
2. Prevents Urinary Tract Infections:
Cloudy urine in pregnant women is the first sign of urinary tract infections. Apple cider vinegar contains the enzymes and minerals which help prevent and treat these infections.
3. Regulates Heartburn:
Heartburn is very common in pregnant women because of the acid refluxes into the food pipe and also because of the growing fetus. Incorporating apple cider vinegar into the diet can help in reducing heartburn. ACV is considered one of the quickest natural remedies for heartburn.
4. Maintains Blood Pressure:
Pregnant women often face issues with blood pressure. It sometimes becomes high and occasionally low. Drinking the right amount of ACV helps in maintaining blood pressure. The acetic acid present in the ACV lowers blood pressure by reducing the activity of the renin enzyme, the one responsible for high blood pressure.
5. Aids Digestion:
Proper digestion is a sign of a healthy pregnancy. Pregnant women usually face digestion issues because of a weakened immune system. The antibiotic properties of ACV fight stomach problems and improve digestion by regulating metabolism and promoting good bacteria in the stomach. Apple cider vinegar also contains pectin, which soothes an upset tummy.
6. Combats Yeast Infections:
Pregnant women experience yeast infections very commonly during their pregnancy. ACV has distinctive components that can cure and control yeast infections such as candida infections. The topical application of ACV can reduce the infection and its symptoms.
7. Streamlines Blood Circulation:
ACV is known to regulate blood flow inside the body. During pregnancy, the pregnant woman will have the problem of swelling and varicose veins because of improper blood flow. Consuming ACV eases the blood flow, thereby relieving these conditions.
8. Detoxification:
Apple cider vinegar has antioxidant properties in it. This helps in detoxifying the body and cleanses the body. A cleansed body absorbs nutrients better, which in turn leads to better metabolism.
9. Treats Diabetes:
ACV is considered to maintain blood sugar levels in the body. During pregnancy, sugar levels fluctuate very often if a proper diet is not taken. ACV can lower blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity when consumed with certain foods.
10. Combats Acne:
Acne is quite a common problem faced by pregnant women during and after pregnancy. ACV is well known to fight acne problems. It acts as a toner, helps rebalance the pH of the skin, and removes any dead cells.
11. Fights Common Cold:
Pregnant women are generally hesitant to take over-the-counter medications for cold and sore throats; instead, look out for home remedies. ACV is one such type of solution which fights the common cold and sore throat because of its anti-bacterial and immunity-boosting present in it.
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Side Effects of ACV During Pregnancy:
- Raw apple cider vinegar harms your digestive system because of its acidic properties. It can burn through the food pipe.
- Drinking raw ACV can erode the teeth because of its acetic acid.
- ACV can react badly with insulin, the diabetic drug. Hence consult your doctor before incorporating ACV into your diet during pregnancy.
- Unpasteurized ACV, when consumed, causes some foodborne illnesses. Some of these illnesses can be deadly and may cause miscarriage, stillbirth, etc. Hence it is recommended to avoid unpasteurized ACV during Pregnancy.
How to Consume Apple Cider Vinegar While Pregnancy:
Apple cider vinegar should always be consumed in dilution because of the acetic acid present in it. Pregnant women should only drink pasteurized ACH. Some of the ways to consume ACV are given below:
- Take a glass full of filtered or coconut water, add one spoon full of apple cider vinegar, and drink it on an empty stomach. If required, add 2-3 spoons of honey for a better taste.
- Dilute one spoon of ACV with fruit juice, preferably non-acidic fruit juice. If required, add 1-2 spoons of honey in it. Mix it well and enjoy drinking the mixture.
- Add two teaspoons of grape juice, two tablespoons of ACV, half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder, and half a teaspoon of stevia with a glass full of filtered cold water and enjoy the elixir.
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Apple Cider vinegar during pregnancy is more beneficial for your body. It has various health benefits and is quite safe. The consumption of ACV can be once or twice a day, a tablespoon of vinegar mixed with a glass of water, depending on the dose advised by your doctor. Pasteurized apple cider vinegar is recommended for pregnant women.
Q1. What is the Safe Quantity of ACV During Pregnancy?
Ans: Usually, 2-3 tablespoons of ACV diluted in a glass full of filtered water is the safest quantity to consume daily.
Q2. Which is the Best ACV Brand to use During pregnancy?
Ans: There are many brands of ACV available in the market which have their own specialities. The one we recommend is Bragg Organic Raw Apple ACV. But, before using it, check for any allergic reactions in your body.
Q3. Can ACV Terminate the Pregnancy?
Ans: ACV in moderate quantity cannot harm the pregnancy. But, if consumed excessively, you may face foodborne illnesses, which may lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.
Q4. Is it Safe to Drink ACV During Breastfeeding?
Ans: ACV during breastfeeding is safe but only in moderate quantities because of the acetic acid present.
Disclaimer: Since this is a medical article related to pregnancy, the information provided above is only for educational purposes and should not be considered a piece of medical advice. Consult your gynaecologist before consuming apple cider vinegar during pregnancy.
