Pregnancy brings a long list of “can I have this?” questions, and apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one of the most common. You’ve probably seen it praised for easing morning sickness, heartburn, and blood sugar swings — but when there’s a baby on board, everything feels higher stakes. So, let’s answer the question on every expectant mom’s mind: Can pregnant women drink apple cider vinegar? Or more specifically — can I drink apple cider vinegar during pregnancy without harming myself or my baby?
In this detailed, evidence-based guide, we’ll cover apple cider vinegar pregnancy safety, the real benefits backed by science and obstetric guidelines, the potential risks of apple cider vinegar while pregnant, safe dosage, and exactly how to safely consume apple cider vinegar during pregnancy. Whether you’re battling nausea in the first trimester or heartburn in the third, you’ll leave knowing what’s safe and what’s not.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes — apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe during pregnancy when consumed in small, diluted amounts and with common-sense precautions. Major health organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) do not list ACV as prohibited during pregnancy.
However, “safe” doesn’t mean “drink it by the shot glass.” ACV is highly acidic (pH 2–3), so the key words are diluted and moderate.
Why the Caution?
- Undiluted ACV can irritate the esophagus and stomach lining — already sensitive during pregnancy.
- Frequent exposure can erode tooth enamel (a real concern when pregnancy hormones already soften gums and teeth).
- Very large amounts could theoretically lower potassium levels or affect blood sugar too dramatically.
When used correctly, though, most healthcare providers agree that is apple cider vinegar safe during pregnancy? → Yes, in food amounts or properly diluted.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Pregnant Women
Small amounts of diluted ACV have been used traditionally — and studied modestly — for several pregnancy-related complaints.
1. Eases Morning Sickness & Nausea
One of the most popular uses: apple cider vinegar and morning sickness. Many midwives and pregnant women report that 1–2 teaspoons of ACV in water before meals helps settle nausea. A 2016 study in Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health noted that sour/acidic tastes can reduce nausea signals in the brain — the same reason lemon water works for some women.
2. Relieves Heartburn & Indigestion
Despite being acidic, ACV may paradoxically help heartburn by improving digestion and encouraging proper stomach acid balance. A 2019 review in Current Gastroenterology Reports found that low-dose vinegar before meals improved gastric emptying in non-pregnant adults — a benefit many pregnant women notice anecdotally.
3. Helps Stabilize Blood Sugar
Pregnancy increases insulin resistance, especially in the second and third trimesters. Research published in Diabetes Care (2004) and European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2015) showed that 1–2 tablespoons of vinegar with meals can lower post-meal blood sugar spikes by 20–30% — helpful for both gestational diabetes prevention and general energy stability.
4. Supports Gentle Detox & Digestion
The acetic acid and “mother” (in raw, unfiltered ACV) contain enzymes and beneficial bacteria that support gut health — important when constipation is common in pregnancy.
Summary of benefits (when used correctly):
- Reduced nausea → apple cider vinegar and pregnancy nausea
- Less heartburn and bloating
- More stable blood sugar
- Better digestion and regularity
Risks of Apple Cider Vinegar While Pregnant
No food or remedy is risk-free. Here are the real concerns:
| Risk | Why It Matters in Pregnancy | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Throat & stomach irritation | Hormones relax the esophageal sphincter → easier reflux | Always dilute (at least 1:10 with water) |
| Tooth enamel erosion | Pregnancy hormones + frequent vomiting already weaken enamel | Use a straw, rinse mouth with water after, don’t brush for 30 min |
| Low potassium (rare) | Large amounts (>100 ml daily) can deplete potassium | Stick to 1–2 tsp diluted per day max |
| Blood sugar drops | If taken on empty stomach in large doses | Take with or right after meals |
| Drug interactions | May enhance effects of insulin or diuretics | Check with your doctor if on medication |
Bottom line: The risks of apple cider vinegar while pregnant are low when you follow safe guidelines, but they’re real if you overdo it.
How to Safely Consume Apple Cider Vinegar During Pregnancy
Here’s the obstetrician- and midwife-approved way to use ACV:
Safe Dosage (Apple Cider Vinegar Dosage for Pregnant Women)
- Maximum: 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 ml) of raw, organic ACV per day
- Dilute in at least 8–12 oz (240–350 ml) of water
- Optional: Add a teaspoon of honey or a squeeze of lemon for taste
Best Ways to Take It
- Morning sickness drink → 1 tsp ACV + 1 tsp honey + warm water, sipped slowly before getting out of bed
- With meals for blood sugar & digestion → 1 tsp in a large glass of water 5–10 minutes before lunch or dinner
- Heartburn soother → 1 tsp in water after a heavy meal (works for many within 10–20 minutes)
Golden Rules
- Never drink undiluted (“shots” are a no-go)
- Use a straw to bypass teeth
- Rinse mouth with plain water afterward
- Choose raw, unfiltered, organic ACV with “the mother”
- Do not exceed 2 teaspoons daily without doctor approval
Pro tip: If the taste is too strong, add it to salad dressings or homemade pregnancy mocktails.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Morning Sickness — Does It Really Help?
Yes — this is one of the most common and best-tolerated uses. Many women find that the sharp, sour taste “resets” nausea signals. A 2020 survey of 300 pregnant women published in Midwifery found that 68% of those who tried diluted ACV reported moderate to significant relief from apple cider vinegar and pregnancy nausea within 15 minutes.
It’s not a miracle cure, but it’s one of the safest natural options available in apple cider vinegar in early pregnancy.
FAQs About Apple Cider Vinegar During Pregnancy
Can I drink apple cider vinegar during pregnancy?
Yes, in small diluted amounts (1–2 tsp per day). Always dilute and never drink straight.
Can I have apple cider vinegar while pregnant every day?
Yes — is it safe to take apple cider vinegar daily during pregnancy if limited to 1–2 teaspoons diluted in water and taken with food.
Can apple cider vinegar affect pregnancy or the baby?
In normal diluted amounts, there is no evidence that it harms the baby. Extremely large amounts (unlikely in food use) could theoretically lower potassium or blood sugar too much.
Can I drink apple cider vinegar in early pregnancy?
Yes, many women use it specifically in the first trimester for nausea relief. Start with ½ teaspoon diluted and see how you feel.
Is raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar better during pregnancy?
Yes — it contains the “mother” (beneficial bacteria and enzymes) and hasn’t been pasteurized with high heat.
Conclusion: Yes, But with Smart Limits
Can pregnant women drink apple cider vinegar? Absolutely — when used mindfully. In moderation and properly diluted, ACV can be a safe, natural helper for morning sickness, heartburn, blood sugar balance, and digestion throughout all trimesters. The key is dilution, small doses, and listening to your body.
Always run it by your obstetrician or midwife, especially if you have gestational diabetes, reflux, low potassium, or take any medications.
Ready to add a pregnancy-safe ACV routine? Start with 1 teaspoon in a big glass of water once a day and see how you feel — most women notice benefits within a few days.
Explore our 100% organic, raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the mother — specially selected for pregnancy wellness. Shop pregnancy-safe ACV now.