Short Answer: Apple cider vinegar is good for IBS. Because it has acetic acid and probiotics and they can lower blood sugar, aid weight loss, balance gut flora, and reduce inflammation.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects your large intestine.
In IBS, your body has abnormal muscle contractions or nerve signals in the intestine.
This can lead to various health problems, such as abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.
One of the key factors in managing IBS is diet.
What you consume can affect your gut bacteria, which can impact your IBS symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage IBS, you should consume fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and avoid fat-rich foods like fried foods, cheese, and butter.
Now, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice.
People usually drink it diluted with water or use it as a dressing or marinade.
Apple cider vinegar is good for IBS because it contains acetic acid and probiotics.
Acetic acid is the main active ingredient in vinegar and may have some health benefits.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health.
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar can give you about 1% of your daily potassium needs and some amino acids and antioxidants.
Acetic acid can help lower blood sugar levels and aid weight loss, which may benefit some people with IBS.
Probiotics can help balance the gut flora and reduce inflammation, which may ease IBS symptoms.
Furthermore, apple cider vinegar is a fermented food and fermented foods are good for IBS.
Because, they can enhance digestion and immunity.
You can drink one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per day safely.
More than that can cause nausea, tooth erosion, or low potassium levels.
Also, you shouldn’t drink apple cider vinegar if you have ulcers, gastritis, or acid reflux to prevent worsening your condition.
Because, it can irritate your stomach lining and increase acidity.
You can buy apple cider vinegar in your local market or can order it online.
Always choose organic, unfiltered, and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar that contains the mother.
Because, it has more nutrients and probiotics than the refined ones.
You can store it in a cool and dark place for up to two years.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing IBS effectively.
I always recommend my IBS patients to follow an IBS-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.