While there is limited research on the health benefits of ACV, some smaller studies have shown that consuming ACV may support weight loss, improve cholesterol levels1 and blood sugar control, and provide antimicrobial effects. ACV also contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help to mitigate oxidative stress in the body. While ACV has been touted for alleviating symptoms of GERD (or acid reflux), the evidence is limited, and it may, in fact, exacerbate symptoms for some because it increases the acidic environment of the gastrointestinal tract.
When consuming ACV, it is important to consider potential negative side effects. High intakes of ACV may cause tooth enamel erosion, oesophagal damage,6 and hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Since ACV could potentially interact with medications, be sure to check with your physician before taking ACV.8 Additionally, unpasteurized food and beverages are not recommended for pregnant women or people with compromised immune systems.
Here, the best apple cider vinegar products:
1. Best Shot: The Twisted Shot Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Shots
For a two-ounce shot with a powerful punch of ACV and antioxidants, try The Twisted Shot Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Shots. These single-serve shots contain raw, unfiltered ACV with the “mother” blended with honey, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne.
Each shot contains 1.5 tablespoons of ACV with 25 calories and 5 grams of sugar.
2. Best Powder: Pure Co. Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Powder
Apple cider vinegar has a strong taste, making it difficult to mask when blending into smoothies. Try Pure Co. Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Powder for a mild-flavoured alternative that can also be stirred and dissolved in water.
In addition to apple cider vinegar, Pure Co. Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Powder contains cayenne and black pepper extract, which provides added antioxidant benefits.
3. Best Gummy: Goli Nutrition World's First Apple Cider Vinegar Gummy
If you are looking for an alternative way to get the potential health benefits of ACV, try Apple Cider Vinegar Gummy Vitamins by Goli Nutrition. In addition to containing “the mother,” these gummies are infused with antioxidant-rich pomegranate and beetroot and are enriched with vitamins B9 (folic acid) and B12.
The recommended dosage is two to three gummies per day, with two gummies equating to the acetic acid levels of one shot of apple cider vinegar. Two gummies contain 100% of the recommended daily value of vitamins B9 and B12.
4. Best Overall: Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar tops our list with its versatility and high “mother” content. This vinegar is raw, unfiltered, and unpasteurized, yielding higher concentrations of acetic acid and “good” bacteria that can help support a healthy gut microbiome.
Braggs is a great pantry staple that can be used in a variety of ways. Mix it with extra virgin olive oil to make a smooth and tangy salad dressing or make a beverage by diluting two tablespoons of the vinegar in eight ounces of water.
