How much apple cider vinegar should I take a day?

Key facts

• No official dose. Ideal amount is unclear. [1]
• Common suggestions. 1–2 teaspoons before or with meals. [1]
• Studied amounts. 1–2 tablespoons a day in a 2009 trial. [1]

What amounts have been studied?

Harvard Health says most dosing suggestions are around 1 to 2 teaspoons before or with meals, and describes a trial where people took 0, 1 or 2 tablespoons of vinegar daily for three months. [1] It also notes that even proponents disagree on how much per day is ideal. [1]

How do I keep it safer?

• Dilute it — acidity can damage tooth enamel when sipped straight; using it in a salad dressing is one alternative. [1]
• Watch potassium — very high long-term intake (about 250 mL daily for six years) was linked to low potassium in one case report. [2]
• Ask first if you have diabetes or take medicines that lower potassium, such as some diuretics. [1]

Timing questions: best time to take apple cider vinegar.

What did the studied doses do?

In the 2009 trial Harvard Health describes, people on 1 or 2 tablespoons a day lost a modest 2–4 lb over three months. That trial, like the others it found, did not specifically test apple cider vinegar. [1]

Related answers: apple cider vinegar health benefits · best time to take apple cider vinegar

Related on Cider Radar

• Open neighbouring answers before you change what you eat or drink.
• Guide: what is cider.

We don't give health advice. For questions about your health, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.