Is it okay to drink apple cider vinegar in hot water every morning?

December 18, 2025 •

4 min read

For centuries, apple cider vinegar has been a popular folk remedy touted for numerous health benefits. So, is it okay to drink apple cider vinegar in hot water every morning, and does this popular ritual come with any risks you should know about before adopting it?

Quick Summary

Diluted apple cider vinegar in warm water is generally safe for most, but excessive intake can erode tooth enamel and irritate the digestive tract. Safe daily consumption requires proper dilution, use of a straw, and rinsing the mouth with plain water afterward to mitigate potential side effects.

Key Points

Dilution is Non-Negotiable: Always mix apple cider vinegar with plenty of water to protect your teeth and esophagus from its high acidity.
Use a Straw: Drinking through a straw minimizes contact between the acidic liquid and your tooth enamel, preventing erosion.
Moderation is Crucial: Limit your daily intake to 1–2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, regardless of the temperature, to avoid potential side effects.
Consider Your Medical History: People with certain conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or acid reflux should consult a doctor before starting a daily ACV regimen.
Temperature Has No Major Impact: While warm water might be soothing, the acidity of the vinegar is the main factor determining safety, not the water temperature.
Rinse After Drinking: Always rinse your mouth with plain water immediately after finishing your drink to help neutralize the acid.

Understanding the Benefits of a Morning ACV Tonic

Many wellness enthusiasts start their day with a warm apple cider vinegar (ACV) tonic, believing it offers a host of health advantages. While most of the evidence is observational or based on small studies, potential benefits include:

Digestive Health Support: ACV is often praised for its ability to support digestion. Its acetic acid may help break down fats and proteins in the stomach, promoting better nutrient absorption and potentially alleviating discomfort like bloating and indigestion.
Modest Weight Management: Some studies suggest that consuming ACV may lead to a feeling of increased fullness, which could result in a lower calorie intake and modest weight loss over time. This effect is not a cure-all and requires combining with a healthy diet and exercise.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Limited research indicates that ACV might help lower blood glucose levels, particularly after meals, by improving insulin response. Individuals with diabetes should be cautious and consult a doctor, as it can interact with medication.
Antimicrobial Properties: The acetic acid in vinegar has long been recognized for its antimicrobial properties. In ancient times, it was used to help clean wounds, and it can also inhibit the growth of certain harmful bacteria like E. coli.

Significant Risks and Important Safety Precautions

While the potential benefits are appealing, the high acidity of apple cider vinegar poses significant risks if not consumed correctly. The temperature of the water does not negate the acidic properties, so proper technique is crucial.

The Danger of Acidity

Tooth Enamel Erosion: The most prominent risk is the irreversible erosion of tooth enamel, the protective layer of your teeth. The acid can weaken and wear away enamel over time, leading to increased sensitivity, decay, and staining.
Esophageal and Throat Irritation: Consuming undiluted or excessively concentrated ACV can cause irritation and damage to the delicate lining of your esophagus and throat. In severe cases, daily intake of undiluted ACV has led to raw, inflamed esophageal tissue.
Gastrointestinal Distress: Some people may experience side effects such as nausea, upset stomach, or worsening acid reflux or heartburn. If you have a sensitive stomach or a history of digestive issues, ACV may aggravate your symptoms.

Potential Medication Interactions

For those on prescription medication, daily ACV can be risky. It may interact with several drug types, including:

Diuretics and Laxatives: High consumption of ACV can affect potassium levels, and when combined with these medications, it can lead to dangerously low potassium levels (hypokalemia).
Diabetes Medications: ACV's potential effect on blood sugar can be problematic when taking insulin or other glucose-lowering drugs, as it may cause blood sugar levels to drop too low.

Safe Consumption of ACV in Hot Water

To enjoy the potential benefits while minimizing the risks, follow these best practices:

Always Dilute: Mix no more than 1–2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered ACV with at least 8 ounces of warm (not boiling) water.
Use a Straw: Drinking through a straw bypasses your front teeth, reducing the direct contact of the acid with your enamel.
Rinse Your Mouth: After finishing your tonic, rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain water to help neutralize the acid.
Wait Before Brushing: Do not brush your teeth immediately after consuming ACV. The acid temporarily softens your enamel, and brushing could cause further damage. Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour.
Listen to Your Body: Start with a small amount and observe how your body reacts. If you experience any discomfort, consider reducing your intake or stopping altogether.

ACV Hot vs. Cold Water Consumption

This table outlines the key differences between consuming ACV in hot versus cold water.


Aspect	Hot Water	Cold Water
Sensation	Soothing and comforting, like a tea.	Refreshing and crisp.
Enzyme Activity	Warm, but not boiling, water helps preserve the integrity of beneficial enzymes in the "mother".	Cold water has no effect on enzyme integrity.
Dilution	ACV dissolves easily, making it simple to create a uniform drink.	ACV still mixes well, but may require slightly more stirring.
Effect on Acidity	No change. The pH of the mixture remains the same regardless of the water temperature.	No change. The pH of the mixture remains the same.
Overall Safety	Safe, provided proper dilution and consumption techniques are followed.	Safe, provided proper dilution and consumption techniques are followed.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Morning ACV

So, is it okay to drink apple cider vinegar in hot water every morning? The answer is a qualified yes. It is generally safe for most healthy individuals, but only when consumed mindfully and with proper precautions. The key to a safe and potentially beneficial routine lies in moderation and, most importantly, thorough dilution. Always mix 1–2 tablespoons with plenty of water, use a straw to protect your teeth, and rinse your mouth afterward. For those with underlying health conditions, especially diabetes or kidney disease, or for those taking medication, consulting a healthcare professional is essential before incorporating daily ACV into your regimen. Adopting these safe practices ensures you can explore the potential benefits without experiencing the negative side effects of this highly acidic tonic.

For more detailed information on ACV and its potential health effects, consider consulting resources like the MD Anderson Cancer Center.(https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar.h00-159696756.html)

Frequently Asked Questions

While some studies suggest a very modest link between ACV and increased feelings of fullness, it is not a miracle weight-loss solution. Its effect is minor and requires pairing with a balanced diet and exercise.

Yes, if not properly diluted. The high acidity of apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel. To protect your teeth, always dilute it and drink through a straw, rinsing with plain water immediately afterward.

Many people do, but it can cause nausea or worsen acid reflux for some individuals, especially on an empty stomach. Drinking it with a meal can help shield the stomach lining and reduce the risk of irritation.

The "mother" is the cloudy sediment found in raw, unfiltered ACV, composed of beneficial bacteria and enzymes formed during fermentation. Some believe it offers additional health benefits, though more extensive research is needed.

Very hot or boiling water could potentially affect some delicate enzymes and probiotic bacteria found in the "mother." Using warm, but not scalding, water is recommended to preserve these components.

The choice between hot and cold water is a matter of personal preference, as it doesn't change the vinegar's acidity. Warm water can be more soothing for some, while cold water is more refreshing. The key is proper dilution.

Yes, ACV can interact with certain medications, including diuretics, laxatives, and insulin or other diabetes medications. Always consult your doctor before starting a daily ACV regimen if you take any prescription drugs.