Many people enjoy starting their day with apple cider vinegar (ACV) or coffee. Both drinks have health benefits. But is it safe to drink coffee after having apple cider vinegar? This article will explore the effects of combining these two popular drinks.
What Happens When You Drink Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apples. It contains acetic acid, which gives it a sour taste. Many people believe ACV helps with digestion, weight loss, and blood sugar control.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Aids Digestion: ACV may help break down food by increasing stomach acid.
Supports Blood Sugar: Some studies suggest it can improve insulin sensitivity.
May Help with Weight Loss: It can make you feel full, reducing overeating.
Possible Side Effects
Tooth Enamel Erosion: The acidity can wear down teeth over time.
Throat Irritation: Drinking it undiluted may cause a burning sensation.
Stomach Discomfort: Too much ACV can lead to nausea or acid reflux.
What Happens When You Drink Coffee?
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide. It contains caffeine, which boosts energy and alertness. Like ACV, coffee has both benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits of Coffee
Increases Energy: Caffeine helps fight fatigue.
Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage.
May Improve Brain Function: Enhances focus and memory.
Possible Side Effects
Acidity: Coffee can increase stomach acid, causing heartburn.
Sleep Disruption: Drinking it late in the day may affect sleep.
Dehydration: Caffeine is a mild diuretic, increasing urine output.
Can You Drink Coffee After Apple Cider Vinegar?
The short answer is yes, you can drink coffee after ACV. However, there are some things to consider.
How Timing Affects Digestion
Drinking ACV before coffee might help with digestion. Some people believe ACV prepares the stomach for food and drinks. However, drinking them too close together may cause discomfort.
Potential Stomach Irritation
Both ACV and coffee are acidic. Drinking them back-to-back might increase stomach acid too much. This could lead to:
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Nausea
Effects on Teeth
ACV and coffee are both acidic and can weaken tooth enamel. Drinking them one after the other without rinsing your mouth may increase the risk of enamel erosion.
Best Practices for Drinking ACV and Coffee
If you enjoy both drinks, follow these tips to minimize side effects:
Dilute Apple Cider Vinegar
Never drink ACV straight. Mix 1-2 tablespoons in a large glass of water. This reduces its acidity and protects your teeth and stomach.
Wait Before Drinking Coffee
Give your stomach time to process ACV. Waiting 20-30 minutes before drinking coffee may help avoid acid buildup.
Drink Water in Between
Rinse your mouth with water after ACV to protect your teeth. Drinking water between ACV and coffee can also help neutralize acid.
Consider Your Stomach Sensitivity
If you have acid reflux or a sensitive stomach, be cautious. You may need to space them out more or avoid combining them.
Alternatives to Drinking Coffee After ACV
If you find that coffee and ACV don’t mix well for you, try these options:
Herbal Tea Instead of Coffee
Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger are less acidic. They can be gentler on the stomach after ACV.
Green Tea as a Middle Ground
Green tea has less caffeine than coffee but still provides energy. It’s also less acidic.
Lemon Water for Digestion
If you take ACV for digestion, warm lemon water can be a good alternative to coffee.
Scientific Studies on ACV and Coffee
Research on combining ACV and coffee is limited. However, studies on their individual effects can give us clues.
ACV and Stomach Acid
A 2014 study found that acetic acid (in ACV) may help with digestion by increasing stomach acid. However, too much acid can cause discomfort.
Coffee and Acid Reflux
A 2020 study showed that coffee relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, which may lead to acid reflux in some people.
Combined Effects
No major studies confirm whether drinking both is harmful. Most concerns come from their shared acidity.
Common Myths About ACV and Coffee
Myth 1: ACV and Coffee Cancel Each Other Out
Some believe ACV’s alkalizing effect balances coffee’s acidity. However, ACV is acidic, not alkaline.
Myth 2: Coffee Makes ACV Less Effective
There’s no evidence that coffee reduces ACV’s benefits. However, if coffee causes stomach issues, it might interfere with digestion.
Myth 3: You Must Drink Them Together for Weight Loss
No research proves that combining them boosts weight loss more than taking them separately.
Who Should Avoid Combining ACV and Coffee?
Some people should be extra careful:
People with Acid Reflux or GERD
Both drinks can trigger heartburn. If you have GERD, consult your doctor before combining them.
Those with Sensitive Stomachs
If you often feel bloated or nauseous after acidic foods, spacing them out may help.
People with Tooth Enamel Issues
If your dentist has warned you about enamel erosion, limit acidic drinks and rinse with water afterward.
Conclusion
Drinking coffee after apple cider vinegar is generally safe for most people. However, since both are acidic, they may cause stomach discomfort or tooth enamel erosion if consumed too closely together. To minimize risks, dilute ACV, wait 20-30 minutes before drinking coffee, and rinse your mouth with water. If you have digestive issues, consider alternatives like herbal tea. Always listen to your body and adjust based on how you feel.
Related Topics:
How To Lower A1c With Apple Cider Vinegar
