Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been touted as a cure-all for everything from weight loss to acne. But what about its relationship with iodine?
Iodine is a crucial mineral for thyroid function, and many people are concerned that consuming ACV may affect their iodine levels. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between ACV and iodine, and whether or not you should be supplementing with iodine while using ACV.
We’ll also discuss the potential risks of consuming ACV if you have certain medical conditions. So, let’s dive in and find out if ACV has iodine and what it means for your health.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Have Iodine?
While ACV does not naturally contain iodine, there are some concerns about its impact on iodine levels in the body. According to the book “Human Biochemistry,” iodine quickly turns into iodide, which is a less bioactive form, if consumed with food. Iodide is still used by the thyroid, but it doesn’t have the same germicidal properties as iodine.
For this reason, it is not recommended to mix ACV directly with iodine. Waiting to take iodine an hour or two after ACV consumption may be a better idea. Additionally, long-term use of ACV may lower iodine levels and put you at risk for hypothyroidism, according to Michael Weiner, author of the book “Herbs that Heal: Prescription for Herbal Healing.”
Therefore, taking iodine supplements or consuming iodine-rich foods, such as kelp, may be a good idea if you consistently ingest ACV. It’s important to note that while ACV can provide some health benefits, it should not be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition or treatment for medical conditions.
What Is Iodine And Why Is It Important For Your Health?
Iodine is an essential nutrient that is used by the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and other bodily functions. The human body cannot produce iodine on its own, so it must be consumed through the diet. Iodine is found in a variety of foods, including seafood, dairy products, and some vegetables.
Iodine deficiency is one of the most common and preventable world health problems, and can lead to a range of health issues such as goiter, hypothyroidism, and intellectual disabilities. In fact, iodine supplementation has been shown to improve cognitive function in children with iodine deficiency.
In addition to its role in thyroid function, iodine also has germicidal properties and can kill bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. It is used for a variety of medical conditions, including wound healing, gum infections, and pink eye.
While iodine is an important nutrient for overall health, it’s important to note that excessive iodine intake can also be harmful. It’s best to talk to your doctor about your specific iodine needs and whether supplementation is necessary or appropriate for you.
How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Affect Iodine Levels In Your Body?
There is some debate among health practitioners about the impact of ACV on iodine levels in the body. Some believe that long-term use of ACV may deplete iodine levels, which could lead to thyroid problems. American doctor DeForest Clinton Jarvis recommended combining ACV with iodine for health benefits starting in the 1930s. However, some experts believe that taking these two together may render the iodine useless.
Currently, no research has been conducted on the effects of ACV on iodine or their combined effects on human health. However, according to Michael Weiner, author of “Herbs that Heal: Prescription for Herbal Healing,” prolonged use of ACV may lower iodine levels and put you at risk for hypothyroidism.
It’s important to note that while ACV can provide some health benefits, it should not be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition or treatment for medical conditions. Therefore, taking iodine supplements or consuming iodine-rich foods, such as kelp, may be a good idea if you consistently ingest ACV. Waiting to take iodine an hour or two after ACV consumption may also be a good idea to avoid any potential negative effects on iodine levels.
Should You Supplement With Iodine While Using Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you are consistently consuming ACV, it may be beneficial to supplement with iodine or consume iodine-rich foods to maintain healthy iodine levels in the body. While iodine is not naturally present in ACV, the book “Human Biochemistry” states that consuming iodine with food can cause it to quickly turn into iodide, which is a less bioactive form of iodine.
Furthermore, long-term use of ACV may lower iodine levels in the body, which can increase the risk of hypothyroidism. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you are getting enough iodine through your diet or supplementation if you are regularly consuming ACV.
It’s important to note that before starting any supplementation, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure that it won’t interact with any medications or medical conditions you may have.
Risks Of Consuming Apple Cider Vinegar If You Have Certain Medical Conditions
While ACV can provide some health benefits, it is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions to consume large amounts of it. Firstly, due to its high acidity, undiluted ACV can irritate the esophagus and break down tooth enamel. Therefore, it is important to always dilute ACV and drink it through a straw to protect your teeth.
Individuals who suffer from indigestion or nausea may also experience discomfort after consuming ACV. It is best to avoid drinking it on an empty stomach and if you feel sick or throw up after taking it, stop using it immediately. Additionally, ACV can interact with certain medications such as diuretics, laxatives, and insulin. It is important to consult with a doctor before using ACV if you are taking any of these medications.
Furthermore, individuals with low potassium levels (hypokalemia) should be cautious when consuming ACV as large amounts of it can decrease potassium levels and make the condition worse. People with kidney disease should also limit their intake of ACV as their kidneys may not be able to handle high levels of acid.
In general, it is recommended to consume no more than 1-2 tablespoons of ACV per day. If you are considering taking ACV supplements, it is important to follow the dosage directions on the packaging and consult with a doctor before use. While vinegars, including ACV, contain acetic acid which can provide health benefits in moderation, it is important to remember that no one food can prevent or cure an illness.
Other Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar
Aside from its potential impact on iodine levels, apple cider vinegar has been used for a variety of health purposes. For example, it has been traditionally used as a disinfectant and natural preservative due to its acetic acid content. In fact, Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used vinegar to clean wounds over 2,000 years ago.
Additionally, anecdotal reports suggest that diluted apple cider vinegar could help with acne when applied to the skin. However, there is currently no strong research to confirm this. Vinegar has also been shown to inhibit bacteria like E. coli from growing in and spoiling food, making it a natural way to preserve food.
Some people also believe that apple cider vinegar can aid in weight loss. While it is not a magic bullet, some individuals have reported success with this method. The combination of kelp, lecithin, B6, and apple cider vinegar is said to help regulate metabolism and facilitate the movement of fats, wastes, and nutrients in and out of cells. This combination may also help lower cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing good cholesterol levels in the blood.
