Apple cider vinegar or ACV is a vinegar produced by fermenting apple juice. Research suggests it has several medicinal and therapeutic properties that could benefit health over time (1). But though it is generally safe for adults, is apple cider vinegar for kids a safe choice? Understanding this is in detail is essential to avert its side effects that may affect children. Generally, ACV is available in two forms – unfiltered and filtered. Unfiltered ACV contains the bacterial culture called the “mother,” which is known to have probiotic effects. However, it can have some ill effects on sensitive children. Thus, it must be administered with thorough pediatric guidance only. Read on as we tell you more about the safety of ACV for children, its possible benefits, side effects, and the proper ways to add apple cider vinegar to your child’s diet.
Can Children Consume Apple Cider Vinegar?
Children can consume one to two teaspoons (5-10ml) of apple cider vinegar diluted in a glass of water before meals, or served during meals with a food item, like a salad (2). However, check the suitability of the vinegar first. ACV with “mother” contains Acetobacter aceti bacteria, which is known to have probiotic effects (3). But these bacteria may cause allergic reactions in some individuals (4). If you are concerned about how the child would respond to unfiltered apple cider vinegar, then pick filtered and pasteurized vinegar, which contains very little bacteria. If your child has any gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, allergies, dental problems, or is on any medication, then consult a doctor before introducing ACV (1) (5).
Possible Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar For Children
ACV contains probiotics, minerals, vitamins, and a wide array of bioactive compounds, such as organic acids and polyphenols (6), which may provide some health benefits in the long run. Apple cider vinegar could provide some benefits that can promote overall health. Yet, encourage your child to eat a whole apple to achieve a broader spectrum of health benefits.
Possible Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
Allergic reactions and drug interactions are potential side effects of ACV. Some of the other likely side effects of oral and topical use of apple cider vinegar are the following.
Tips For Using Apple Cider Vinegar For Children
These tips could help in the safe use of ACV among children and teens.
How to Add Apple Cider Vinegar In Your Child’s Diet?
Below are some handy tips for using ACV to prepare healthy recipes for your children and teens.
Apple Cider Vinegar Recipes For Children
Try these tasty and healthy apple cider vinegar recipes for your children and teens.
1. ACV and cranberry mocktail
You will need:
1 cup cranberry juice ½ cup water 2tsps organic apple cider vinegar 2tsps maple syrup or raw honey
How to:
2. Cider vinegar salad dressing
You will need:
½ cup shallot (peeled, cored and quartered) ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup organic apple cider vinegar 2tsps Dijon mustard sauce 2tsps Manuka honey Black pepper powder, to taste Salt, to taste
How to:
3. Ginger and ACV switchel
You will need:
2tsps organic apple cider vinegar 4tsps honey ¼ tsp ground or grated ginger 1 cup water
How to:
