Yes, You Should Dilute Apple Cider Vinegar When You Drink It

October 29, 2025 •

3 min read

Scientific studies show that apple cider vinegar (ACV) has a pH level between 2.5 and 3.0, making it highly acidic. This acidity is precisely why the answer to the question, "should you dilute apple cider vinegar when you drink it?" is an emphatic and unequivocal yes.

Quick Summary

Always dilute apple cider vinegar with water before drinking to prevent severe damage to tooth enamel and the esophageal lining caused by its high acidity. Safe consumption requires proper dilution techniques, controlled dosage, and awareness of associated risks.

Key Points

Dilution is non-negotiable: Always dilute apple cider vinegar with water before drinking to prevent serious health risks.
Protect your tooth enamel: The high acidity of undiluted ACV can cause irreversible erosion of tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and decay.
Prevent esophageal injury: Drinking ACV straight can burn and damage the delicate lining of your throat and esophagus.
Follow dilution guidelines: A typical safe ratio is 1-2 tablespoons of ACV mixed into 8-12 ounces of water.
Minimize contact with teeth: Using a straw and rinsing your mouth with plain water afterward are simple yet effective protective measures.
Consult a healthcare provider: It is especially important to speak with a doctor before using ACV if you take other medications or have health conditions like diabetes.

The Scientific Necessity of Diluting ACV

Apple cider vinegar's potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion and managing blood sugar, have made it a popular wellness supplement. However, the very component responsible for many of these effects—acetic acid—is also a significant risk factor if not handled correctly. A typical bottle of apple cider vinegar contains a concentration of 5-6% acetic acid, which gives it a powerful acidic profile. By comparison, water is a neutral 7.0 on the pH scale. This high acidity is corrosive and can cause serious physical damage to the body's tissues over time, making dilution a non-negotiable step for safe consumption.

The Serious Risks of Drinking Undiluted ACV

Consuming undiluted apple cider vinegar directly exposes your body to its full, harmful acidity. The potential damage is not theoretical; numerous case studies and scientific analyses document the adverse effects.

Irreversible Tooth Enamel Erosion

Your tooth enamel is the protective outer layer that shields your teeth from decay. It is the hardest substance in the human body, but it is highly vulnerable to acid. When undiluted ACV is consumed, its low pH can weaken and wear away this enamel, a process called acid erosion. Once tooth enamel is gone, it does not regenerate. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and a higher risk of developing cavities. Using a straw and rinsing your mouth afterward are two effective methods to minimize contact with your teeth.

Esophageal and Throat Burns

The lining of your esophagus is a delicate and sensitive tissue that is not built to withstand high concentrations of acid. Drinking undiluted ACV can cause irritation and even corrosive burns to the esophagus, a documented side effect. In some extreme instances, particularly with pills or concentrated solutions, the acid can cause significant esophageal injury.

Stomach and Digestive Issues

While some use ACV to aid digestion, consuming it undiluted can have the opposite effect, causing an upset stomach, bloating, or nausea. This is particularly true for individuals with pre-existing digestive sensitivities or conditions like acid reflux. Diluting the vinegar is a simple step that can prevent or mitigate this gastrointestinal discomfort.

Comparison of Diluted vs. Undiluted ACV


Feature	Undiluted Apple Cider Vinegar	Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar
Safety Risk	High risk of permanent dental erosion and esophageal damage.	Very low risk when following recommended guidelines.
Recommended Intake	Never recommended.	1-2 tablespoons mixed with water, usually once daily.
Impact on Enamel	Direct and rapid erosion of tooth enamel.	Minimized contact and acid exposure, reducing erosion risk.
Impact on Esophagus	Potential for irritation, burning, and injury.	Significantly reduced risk of tissue damage.
Palatability	Extremely harsh and unpleasant taste.	Milder, more palatable flavor, especially with added ingredients like honey.

The Proper Method for Diluting Apple Cider Vinegar

To enjoy any potential health benefits of ACV while minimizing the risks, follow these best practices for dilution:

Start with a small dose. Begin with 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of ACV mixed into a large glass of water (at least 8 ounces) to see how your body reacts.
Increase slowly. Gradually work your way up to the standard dose of 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 mL) of ACV per day.
Use plenty of water. A ratio of 1-2 tablespoons of ACV per 8-12 ounces of water is a widely recommended standard for safety.
Drink with a straw. This reduces direct contact between the acidic liquid and your teeth, further protecting enamel.
Rinse your mouth. After consuming your diluted ACV drink, rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain water to neutralize any remaining acid.
Consume with meals. Drinking diluted ACV alongside or immediately before a meal can help protect your stomach lining by providing other food to buffer the acid.

Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Above All Else

While apple cider vinegar is widely touted as a health tonic, it is imperative to remember that it is a potent and highly acidic substance. The answer to whether you should dilute it is a clear and resounding yes. Drinking it straight poses significant and potentially irreversible risks to your dental and esophageal health. By following the simple, straightforward dilution guidelines, you can safely incorporate ACV into your routine and minimize the risk of damaging side effects. For those with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or low potassium, or those taking specific medications, it is always wise to consult a healthcare professional before beginning an ACV regimen. WebMD provides additional details on the benefits and risks of ACV for different health conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is never safe or recommended to drink apple cider vinegar straight. Its high acidity can cause significant damage to your tooth enamel and the lining of your throat and esophagus.

For every 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, you should mix it with at least 8 ounces of water. Some people prefer a more diluted mix, so a larger glass of water is also acceptable.

Yes, using a straw helps protect your teeth by minimizing the contact between the acidic liquid and your tooth enamel. It is a simple and effective way to reduce the risk of acid erosion.

Early signs of damage can include increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as a burning or uncomfortable sensation in your throat or stomach.

Yes, you can mix it with other liquids to improve the taste and aid dilution. Popular options include tea, honey, or even adding it to a salad dressing. However, avoid mixing it with other acidic drinks, like fruit juice, as this will not effectively reduce the overall acidity.

Regularly drinking undiluted ACV can lead to serious, long-term problems, including irreversible tooth enamel erosion, chronic throat irritation, esophageal burns, and digestive upset.

Many people drink diluted ACV just before or with a meal, as it can help with digestion and blood sugar management. If you are prone to acid reflux, you should avoid drinking it too close to bedtime.