Is It Better to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Juice in the Morning or at Night?

October 15, 2025 •

4 min read

Multiple studies have explored the effects of apple cider vinegar on appetite and blood sugar, yet the debate continues over the best timing for its consumption. When considering your health objectives, is it better to drink apple cider vinegar and lemon juice in the morning or at night? This guide explores the distinct benefits and considerations for each time of day.

Quick Summary

The ideal time to consume apple cider vinegar and lemon juice varies based on your health goals, such as boosting morning metabolism or aiding digestion before sleep.

Key Points

Timing Depends on Goals: The ideal time to drink apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon juice is based on your health objectives, whether it's boosting morning metabolism or controlling night-time cravings.
Morning for Energy: Drinking the mixture in the morning can help kickstart metabolism, aid digestion, and provide a Vitamin C boost.
Night for Appetite Control: Consuming it at night may help curb late-night snacking and regulate blood sugar levels.
Prioritize Safety: Always dilute the mixture with water to prevent tooth enamel erosion and throat irritation. Using a straw is also recommended.
Talk to a Pro: Individuals with health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease should consult a doctor before starting a regular ACV routine due to potential drug interactions.
Listen to Your Body: Start with a small amount and observe your body's reaction, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
Give It Space: If drinking at night, wait at least 30 minutes before lying down to prevent acid reflux.

The combination of apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon juice has become a popular health tonic, often consumed as part of a daily wellness routine. Proponents claim it offers a range of benefits, from supporting weight management to improving digestion. However, the question of whether to drink this potent elixir in the morning or at night is a subject of much discussion. As with many dietary practices, the optimal timing can depend on your specific health goals and how your body responds.

The Case for a Morning Concoction

For many, a glass of water with ACV and lemon juice is a staple of their morning ritual, believed to kickstart the day with a dose of wellness. Drinking it first thing in the morning, often on an empty stomach, is a common practice aimed at maximizing certain health effects.

Benefits of Drinking ACV and Lemon in the Morning

Metabolism Boost: Some evidence suggests that ACV and lemon can help kickstart your metabolism, aiding the body's natural fat-burning processes.
Aids Digestion: Consuming the mixture before a meal can stimulate the production of stomach acid and digestive juices, leading to better digestion and nutrient absorption throughout the day.
Detoxification: This morning drink is often used as a cleansing agent to help flush out toxins that accumulate overnight, leaving you feeling refreshed.
Vitamin C and Antioxidants: Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which can give your immune system a boost right at the start of your day.

The Argument for a Nighttime Elixir

While the morning routine is popular, drinking this mixture at night offers a different set of potential benefits, particularly for individuals with specific evening concerns like acid reflux or late-night cravings.

Benefits of Drinking ACV and Lemon at Night

Appetite Suppression: The appetite-suppressing effects of ACV may be particularly useful at night, helping to curb late-night snacking and feelings of fullness.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies indicate that consuming ACV before bed can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for diabetics or those looking to prevent weight gain related to blood sugar spikes.
Potential Sleep Aid: Some research has found that the acetic acid in vinegar may have a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially promoting better sleep.
Reduced Acid Reflux: For some individuals, drinking a diluted ACV solution can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux, although it's important to consume it a few hours before lying down.

Risks and Precautions to Consider

Regardless of the timing, it is critical to consume this acidic beverage safely to avoid potential side effects.

Essential Safety Guidelines

Always Dilute: Never drink concentrated apple cider vinegar. The high acidity can damage your throat and esophagus.
Protect Your Teeth: The acidity can erode tooth enamel over time. Drinking through a straw can minimize contact with your teeth. It is also recommended to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Monitor for GI Issues: Individuals with sensitive stomachs might experience irritation or discomfort. It's best to start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.
Avoid Lying Down Immediately: If drinking at night, wait at least 30 minutes to 2 hours before lying down to prevent acid reflux.
Check with a Doctor: Those with existing health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or low potassium, or those on diuretics or insulin, should consult a healthcare professional before regular consumption.

How to Prepare Your Drink Safely

Mixing ACV and lemon juice is simple and can be made more palatable with a few additions.

A Basic Recipe:

Add 1-2 tablespoons of organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with "the mother" to a glass.
Squeeze in the juice from half a fresh lemon.
Fill the glass with 8-10 ounces of water.
Mix thoroughly and enjoy.

Variations and Add-Ins:

Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to sweeten.
A pinch of cinnamon or a slice of fresh ginger can add flavor and additional benefits.
Use warm water to help dissolve ingredients more easily.

Morning vs. Night: A Comparative Look

Choosing the best time depends entirely on your primary health objectives. The table below summarizes the key differences to help you decide.


Feature	Morning Consumption	Nighttime Consumption
Primary Goal	Boosting metabolism, aiding morning digestion, detox.	Suppressing appetite, regulating blood sugar, promoting sleep.
Key Benefits	Energizing, immune support (Vitamin C), improved nutrient absorption.	Feeling of fullness, potential blood sugar stabilization, calming effect.
Best Practice	Drink 20-30 minutes before breakfast on an empty stomach for maximum effect.	Drink a few hours before bed to avoid acid reflux.
Risk Factor	May cause nausea on an empty stomach for some people.	Can potentially worsen acid reflux if consumed too close to bedtime.
Taste Profile	Refreshing and sharp, invigorating.	More subtle, can be warmed.

Finding Your Personal Best Time

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should drink apple cider vinegar and lemon juice. The right time for you is based on your individual goals and how your body tolerates it. If you're looking for an energy boost and better digestion to start your day, a morning drink is likely the best fit. If your aim is to manage late-night cravings or stabilize blood sugar, a nighttime regimen might be more effective.

It is advisable to start slowly, perhaps with a smaller amount, and observe how your body reacts before making it a consistent habit. If you experience any adverse side effects, it's best to reduce the amount or stop consuming it altogether. Always prioritize listening to your body and consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.

In conclusion, the 'best' time to drink apple cider vinegar and lemon juice is a matter of personal preference and desired outcome. By understanding the distinct benefits and precautions associated with both morning and evening consumption, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your wellness journey.

For more detailed information on the potential risks and benefits of apple cider vinegar, it is always best to consult reliable medical sources such as WebMD.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is generally safe to drink diluted apple cider vinegar and lemon juice on an empty stomach. In fact, many people prefer this for maximum digestive and metabolic benefits. However, if you experience nausea or discomfort, try having it with a meal.

For most benefits like aiding digestion and promoting fullness, it's typically recommended to consume the drink 20-30 minutes before a meal. Drinking it after a heavy meal could potentially slow down digestion for some individuals.

While not a magic solution, the ACV and lemon mixture can support weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and potentially aiding metabolism and blood sugar regulation. It should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

'The mother' is a cloudy, cobweb-like substance found in unfiltered ACV, containing beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and probiotics formed during fermentation. It is considered the healthiest part of the vinegar.

To protect your tooth enamel, always dilute the mixture generously with water and consider drinking it through a straw. Rinsing your mouth with plain water immediately after consuming the drink can also help.

Yes, you can add a small amount of natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to improve the taste. A sprinkle of cinnamon or ginger can also be added for extra flavor and health benefits.

Yes, potential side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, irritation of the throat, and damage to tooth enamel due to the high acidity. Always dilute the mixture and listen to your body's tolerance.