Do I Drink Apple Cider Vinegar in the Morning or at Night?

Reports suggest that the timing of consuming apple cider vinegar (ACV) might influence its potential health benefits, which can range from supporting digestion to impacting blood sugar levels. Understanding whether to drink apple cider vinegar in the morning or at night depends on your personal health objectives.

Quick Summary

Examines the potential impacts of consuming apple cider vinegar in the morning versus at night, considering effects on digestion, blood sugar management, and overall wellness. Offers insights to help decide the most suitable timing for individual health goals.

Key Points

• Morning Consumption: Drinking diluted ACV in the morning may support digestion and help manage appetite throughout the day.

• Evening Consumption: Taking ACV a few hours before bedtime might be considered for potentially influencing overnight blood sugar levels.

• Pre-Meal Timing: Consuming ACV before meals, especially carbohydrate-rich ones, may help moderate post-meal blood sugar responses and increase feelings of fullness.

• Dilution is Essential: To protect tooth enamel and the digestive tract, ACV should always be diluted with a sufficient amount of water.

• Consult Healthcare Provider: Individuals with health conditions or those on medication should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating ACV into their routine.

• Consistency Over Timing: Maintaining a consistent daily ACV routine is often more important than the specific time of day for experiencing potential benefits.

• Potential Side Effects: Excessive or undiluted ACV consumption can lead to issues like digestive upset, tooth erosion, and possible interactions with certain medications.

For generations, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been recognized as a traditional remedy. Its main component, acetic acid, is believed to contribute to various potential health benefits, including assisting digestion and potentially influencing blood sugar levels. A frequently asked question is about the optimal time to consume it for maximum effect.

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar in the Morning

Starting the day with diluted ACV is a common practice, particularly among those interested in supporting their metabolism and managing appetite early in the day. Some believe that consuming it on an empty stomach might enhance the absorption of acetic acid.

Potential Benefits of Morning Consumption

• Supports Digestion: A morning dose may help prepare the digestive system for the day's meals.
• Aids Appetite Management: ACV may contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially helping to manage food intake throughout the morning.
• Impact on Blood Sugar: Consuming ACV before breakfast, especially a meal rich in carbohydrates, may help moderate subsequent blood sugar responses.
• Promotes a Sense of Well-being: Integrating ACV into a morning routine can be part of a holistic approach to daily wellness.

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar at Night

Others opt for a nighttime routine with ACV, hoping for benefits that act overnight, such as aiding blood sugar stability or supporting digestion during sleep. If taking ACV in the evening, it is advisable to consume it a few hours before bedtime to avoid potential discomfort.

Potential Benefits of Nighttime Consumption

• Influences Overnight Blood Sugar: Some older research indicates that consuming vinegar in the evening may affect fasting blood sugar levels the following morning, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Manages Evening Cravings: By potentially influencing blood sugar balance, ACV might help reduce the urge for late-night snacks.
• Supports Overnight Digestion: A diluted ACV drink could offer support for the digestive process during the night for some individuals.
• May Aid Relaxation: When mixed with warm water and honey, a nighttime ACV drink is sometimes used as a soothing beverage before sleep.

Timing Considerations: Morning vs. Night vs. Pre-Meal

Selecting the best time for ACV consumption ultimately depends on individual health goals and lifestyle. For some, taking it before meals might be the most effective strategy. Research suggests that consuming ACV before both lunch and dinner may be associated with certain outcomes related to weight management.

Goal	Potential Timing	Rationale
Appetite Management	Morning or before meals	May contribute to increased satiety before eating.
Blood Sugar Support	Before meals (particularly carbohydrate-rich) and potentially at night (a few hours before bed)	May help moderate post-meal blood glucose responses and could influence fasting blood sugar.
Digestive Support	Morning or before meals	May help prime the digestive system.
Part of a Relaxing Routine	At night (well before bed)	Some find it a calming addition to a bedtime routine when mixed with warm water and honey.

Safe Consumption Practices

Regardless of when you choose to drink ACV, consuming it safely is paramount to prevent potential side effects. Due to its acidic nature, undiluted ACV can potentially harm tooth enamel and irritate the digestive tract.

• Dilute Appropriately: Mix ACV with a sufficient amount of water.
• Protect Teeth: Consider using a straw when drinking the diluted mixture to minimize contact with teeth.
• Rinse After: Rinsing your mouth with plain water after consuming ACV can help protect tooth enamel.
• Begin Gradually: If you are new to ACV, start with a smaller amount to assess your tolerance before increasing.
• Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have existing health conditions, especially diabetes, or are taking medications, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare professional before adding ACV to your routine. This is particularly important for those using diuretics or insulin, as ACV may interact with these medications.

Understanding the Research

While personal experiences and some initial studies suggest various benefits of ACV, particularly regarding blood sugar and appetite, the scientific evidence is still developing. More extensive and long-term human studies are needed to fully validate many of the claimed effects. The most beneficial timing often depends on personal preference and which health outcomes are prioritized.

Conclusion

There is no universal best time to drink apple cider vinegar; the ideal timing is often dictated by your individual health goals. For those focusing on managing appetite or supporting metabolism, consuming it in the morning might be preferred. If regulating blood sugar, particularly fasting levels, is a priority, an evening dose taken several hours before sleep might be considered beneficial. Ultimately, integrating ACV into a consistent routine that fits your lifestyle is key. Remember to always dilute ACV appropriately to protect your dental and digestive health.

A well-regarded brand offering organic, unfiltered ACV is Bragg's.(https://www.bragg.com/apple-cider-vinegar-products/apple-cider-vinegar)

References

The Times of India. Morning or night: What's a better time to have apple cider vinegar? (2023) North-West University. Best Time to Transform Effective Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for (2025) Stanford University. When Is the Best Time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss…(2025) Healthline. Is Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar in the Morning Beneficial? (2024) WebMD. Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits, Risks, and Uses (2024) MedicineNet. Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Every Night Before Bed (2022) Stanford University. Best Time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss (2025) MD Anderson Cancer Center. What are the health benefits of apple cider vinegar? (2024) Mayo Clinic. Apple cider vinegar for weight loss (2025) Natural Ability. Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar for Modern-style Weight Highly-rated Loss: The Ultimate Guide to Results (2025) Medical News Today. How to take apple cider vinegar: Dose and recipes (2025) Stanford University. When to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar: 5 Smart Times That Maximize Its…(2025) Stanford University. When Is the Best Time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss…(2025) American Heart Association. What can apple cider vinegar really do for your health? (2024) InstaCare. 10 Unexpected Benefits of Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Every Day (2023) UCI Health. What Do You Mix with Apple Cider Vinegar to Lose Weight? Simple & Effective Solutions (2025) University of Massachusetts Boston. 7 Reasons You Need to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Every Night Before Bed (2025) ICICI Lombard. 5 Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar on Empty Stomach (2025) Stanford University. Best Time to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss: Morning vs…(2025) Cleveland Clinic. 6 Reasons To Try Apple Cider Vinegar (2023) Medical News Today. How to take apple cider vinegar: Dose and recipes (2025)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to take apple cider vinegar in the morning or at night for weight management?

There is no definitive 'better' time, but morning consumption might assist with appetite control throughout the day, while taking it before dinner could potentially reduce late-night cravings. Consuming it 15-30 minutes before any meal may also help manage appetite by increasing feelings of fullness.

What is the safest way to drink apple cider vinegar?

Always dilute ACV in a significant amount of water. To help protect your tooth enamel, consider using a straw and rinsing your mouth with plain water after consumption.

Can drinking diluted apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach cause problems?

While many find it acceptable, the acidity of ACV might cause digestive irritation for some when taken on an empty stomach. If this occurs, taking it with a meal could be a better option.

Does the timing of ACV consumption matter for blood sugar support?

Yes, timing can be relevant. Taking ACV before a meal, particularly one high in carbohydrates, may help moderate post-meal blood sugar levels. Some also consider taking it a few hours before bed for potential effects on morning fasting blood sugar.

How should I start taking apple cider vinegar if I'm new to it?

Begin with a small amount of diluted ACV to see how your body tolerates it. Gradually increase the amount if desired and if you experience no adverse effects.

Can I drink apple cider vinegar right before lying down?

It is generally not recommended to consume ACV immediately before lying down, especially if you are prone to acid reflux. The acidity could potentially cause discomfort. It's often suggested to take it a few hours before bedtime.

How long might it take to notice effects from drinking apple cider vinegar?

Experiences vary greatly among individuals. Some may observe changes related to appetite or digestion within a few weeks, while other potential effects, like those on blood sugar or weight, may take longer and depend on various lifestyle factors.

Who should exercise caution before drinking apple cider vinegar?

Individuals with a history of digestive issues, such as ulcers or acid reflux, those taking certain medications like diuretics or insulin, and people with low potassium levels should consult a doctor before using ACV regularly.