What happens to your body when you drink apple cider vinegar at night?

Have you ever heard someone rave about the magical benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV) before bed? It seems like everyone’s talking about it — celebrities, health gurus, and even your gym buddy. But let’s be honest: it sounds a bit strange, right? Drinking vinegar right before you sleep? Is this just another trend, or does it actually do something worthwhile?

I sat down with Dr. Mark Peters, a nutrition expert and wellness coach, to talk about what really happens to your body when you drink apple cider vinegar at night. And trust me, what I found out might just change the way you look at this fermented liquid.

1. Better Blood Sugar Control

Let’s start with something that affects almost everyone: blood sugar. “Apple cider vinegar is great for stabilizing your blood sugar levels,” says Dr. Peters. “It helps prevent those spikes and crashes that can mess with your sleep and your energy levels the next day.”

He explains that ACV can improve insulin sensitivity, which is key for people dealing with type 2 diabetes or those who want to avoid those mid-night sugar crashes. Research supports this idea. Studies have shown that consuming ACV before bed can help regulate blood glucose levels and even reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance. That means a more stable blood sugar level overnight, which could lead to fewer cravings and better sleep.

Samantha, a 34-year-old teacher who’s been trying out the ACV-before-bed ritual for a month, told me, “I’ve definitely noticed my blood sugar stays more stable. I don’t wake up feeling groggy anymore. And the best part? No 3 a.m. sugar cravings!”

2. It Could Help You Sleep Better

Speaking of sleep, let’s dive into one of the biggest benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar at night. You might be wondering, how could something that’s so acidic help with sleep? Well, it turns out ACV helps your body produce melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Dr. Peters mentions, “When you drink apple cider vinegar before bed, it helps regulate your blood sugar, which in turn helps you sleep better. Low blood sugar at night often causes us to wake up or have restless sleep.”

While there’s no exact formula for perfect sleep, the combination of ACV’s ability to regulate blood sugar and its ability to improve digestion means you’ll wake up feeling more refreshed and well-rested. Jessica, a 28-year-old fitness coach, added, “I used to toss and turn all night, but after a couple of weeks with ACV before bed, I sleep through the night like a baby.”

3. Improved Digestion and Less Bloating

Let’s be real: digestion can be a hassle. Whether it’s after a big meal or just dealing with constant bloating, many people struggle with it. But ACV has some surprising effects. It’s a natural remedy for people dealing with bloating, indigestion, and even heartburn.

When you drink ACV before bed, it can boost stomach acid levels, which in turn helps break down food more efficiently. Dr. Peters explains, “If you struggle with digestion or feel heavy after meals, apple cider vinegar can help improve your digestion. The increased acidity in your stomach helps break down food faster, making digestion smoother and preventing bloating.”

Charlie, a 45-year-old who’s been dealing with chronic bloating, shared his experience: “I used to feel like a balloon after eating, but since I started drinking apple cider vinegar at night, I’ve noticed a big reduction in bloating and indigestion. It’s like my stomach just works better.”

4. Helps with Weight Loss

Okay, who doesn’t want to lose a few pounds, right? If you’ve tried different diets and weight loss methods but haven’t seen results, ACV might just be the missing piece. “Apple cider vinegar helps curb appetite and reduce the amount of food you crave,” says Dr. Peters. The science behind this is that ACV helps increase feelings of fullness, which means you’re less likely to snack or overeat later at night. Plus, its acidic properties may increase fat burning.

Celebrity trainer Kelly Taylor, who’s worked with many clients on weight loss, agrees. “I’ve seen some of my clients shed those last stubborn pounds just by adding apple cider vinegar into their nightly routine. It’s not a miracle cure, but it helps with cravings and encourages better eating habits.”

In fact, a study conducted on people who consumed ACV daily showed that, after 12 weeks, they lost 2-4 pounds without making any drastic changes to their diet or exercise. Not bad for a simple nightly drink!

5. Promotes Healthy Skin

Skin problems — acne, redness, irritation — can leave us feeling frustrated, especially if we can’t seem to get rid of it no matter what we try. Well, it turns out that ACV can support your skin’s health, too.

Dr. Peters explains that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in apple cider vinegar help reduce the buildup of toxins in your body, which can lead to clearer skin. He mentions, “By drinking ACV before bed, you’re helping your body flush out toxins overnight, which can result in healthier, clearer skin.”

Maya, a 26-year-old makeup artist, added, “I started drinking apple cider vinegar before bed to help with my acne, and within a month, I saw a noticeable difference. My skin feels smoother, and I’ve had fewer breakouts.”

6. Reduces Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Heartburn — it’s that uncomfortable, burning feeling that just ruins your night. If you’ve ever suffered from acid reflux, you know how painful it can be to lie down after eating. But ACV can help neutralize stomach acid, preventing the discomfort of acid reflux.

When ACV is consumed in small amounts before bed, it may balance out the acid levels in your stomach. Michael, who had been battling acid reflux for years, shared, “I’ve tried so many medications, but nothing worked as well as ACV. Just one tablespoon before bed, and my reflux is almost nonexistent.”

7. Improves Your Immune System

Finally, apple cider vinegar has powerful antimicrobial properties, meaning it can help fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. By drinking ACV at night, you’re giving your immune system a little extra boost as it works overnight to repair and defend your body.

“I used to get sick all the time, especially during the winter,” says Rachel, who’s been drinking ACV for a few months. “But since I added it to my routine, I feel like I have more energy and haven’t gotten as sick.”

FAQ: Your Top Questions About Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Before Bed

Q: Is it safe to drink apple cider vinegar every night before bed? A: Yes, as long as you dilute it with water. Undiluted vinegar can damage your teeth and throat, so always mix it with water. If you’re prone to acid reflux, you may want to avoid drinking it immediately before lying down.

Q: How much apple cider vinegar should I drink at night? A: A tablespoon or two mixed with a glass of water is usually sufficient. You don’t need to go overboard.

Q: Can apple cider vinegar help with weight loss? A: Yes, it can promote feelings of fullness, which may reduce calorie intake. However, it’s most effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

Q: Can I drink apple cider vinegar at night if I have acid reflux? A: If you suffer from severe acid reflux, it’s best to consult a doctor first. Some people find that drinking it a few hours before bed helps reduce heartburn, but others may experience discomfort.

Q: Will I feel the effects of apple cider vinegar immediately? A: While some benefits, like reduced bloating, may be noticed quickly, others — like weight loss and improved skin — might take a few weeks to show results.

So, what happens to your body when you drink apple cider vinegar at night? From better blood sugar control and improved digestion to better sleep and glowing skin, it’s clear that this simple, everyday drink might just be your new nighttime ritual. Are you ready to give it a try? Your body could thank you for it!