Article

Apple Cider Vinegar and GERD: Does It Really Work?

Published on Tuesday, April 19, 2022
by Brooke Orr

Health & Wellness

Apple Cider Vinegar for GERD: Does It Help or Hurt?

I’m sure somebody out there has heard about this…

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) occurs when contents from the stomach come back up into the esophagus. Most Americans experience GER at some point, but about 20% of the population experience it with enough frequency and severity to be diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

In addition to lifestyle changes, medications are often a first-line treatment for GERD. Still, many people look for alternative or “natural” remedies—one of the most popular being apple cider vinegar (ACV).

While there are plenty of anecdotal success stories, scientific research on ACV for GERD is still very limited.

What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is made through a two-step fermentation process.

According to Bragg, apples are first crushed to make juice and then fermented into alcohol. That alcohol is then converted into acetic acid, creating vinegar. The final product contains what’s often called “the mother,” a mixture of beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and cellulose.

How Is It Supposed to Help GERD?

If you search online, you’ll find countless claims that ACV can help relieve reflux symptoms.

The theory—while interesting—is a bit counterintuitive.

Some suggest that low stomach acid may contribute to reflux by allowing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax. In this case, adding an acid (such as ACV) might help keep the LES closed and reduce episodes of reflux.

However, this explanation is overly simplified.

The function of the LES is influenced by a complex interplay among muscles, hormones, and neurotransmitters—not just by stomach acid levels.

What Does the Research Say?

This is where things get a bit murky.

Despite widespread use, there is little to no high-quality research confirming that ACV is an effective treatment for GERD.

That means:

We don’t have clear evidence on effectiveness
We don’t know the appropriate dosage
We don’t fully understand the potential long-term effects

So while some individuals report relief, it’s difficult to determine whether that’s due to:

Placebo effect
Individual variation
Or actual physiological benefit

Is It Safe to Try?

ACV is often marketed as a “natural” solution—but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free.

Potential concerns include:

Esophageal or throat irritation (especially if taken undiluted)
Tooth enamel erosion
Possible interactions with medications

Because GERD can have different root causes—such as pressure, diet, medication use, or underlying conditions—it’s important that treatment is individualized.

The Bottom Line

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for GERD, but current evidence does not support it as a reliable or standardized treatment.

If you’re considering trying ACV, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider first—especially if you have frequent or severe symptoms.

There may be safer, more effective strategies tailored to your needs.

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_{Campos, M. (2020). Apple cider vinegar…for heartburn?}_{Harvard Health Publishing}_._{https://www.health.harvard.edu}
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_{Lakananurak, N., Pitisuttithum, P., Susantitaphong, P., Patcharatrakul, T., & Gonlachanvit, S. (2024). The Efficacy of Dietary Interventions in Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Intervention Studies. Nutrients, 16(3), 464.}_{https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16030464}
_{National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (n.d.).}_{Definition & facts for GER & GERD}_._{https://www.niddk.nih.gov}