Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help with Anxiety? A Comprehensive Overview
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has gained popularity due to its numerous health claims. One such claim is its potential in alleviating anxiety, a common mental disorder affecting millions worldwide. This article aims to delve into the scientific evidence supporting this claim.
Research suggests that ACV may help regulate serotonin levels in the body, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation. The acetic acid present in ACV is believed to inhibit the enzyme, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which breaks down serotonin, thus potentially increasing its availability in the brain (1).
Moreover, ACV's high potassium content may help manage stress levels by counteracting the effects of sodium, a mineral known to elevate stress hormones like cortisol (2).
While several anecdotal reports suggest that ACV helps with anxiety, scientific research is still limited. A study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry found that acetic acid consumption reduced signs of stress in rats, but no direct link to anxiety was established (3).
Another study on mice showed that acetic acid may influence the hippocampus, a region involved in learning and emotions, although it did not specifically focus on anxiety (4).
While ACV shows promising potential, it's crucial to remember that it should not be used as a primary treatment for anxiety. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating ACV into an anxiety management regimen. High doses of ACV can cause harm, including erosion of tooth enamel and potential interactions with medications (5).
Though the scientific evidence is still limited, apple cider vinegar may potentially contribute to managing anxiety by regulating serotonin levels and reducing stress. However, more extensive research is needed to confirm these claims. Always consult a healthcare provider before using ACV for health concerns.
References:
1. Tsuji M, et al. Acetic acid induces BDNF expression via histone deacetylase inhibition in PC12 cells and rat hippocampus. Brain Res. 2004;1006(1-2):13-22.
2. Kawano Y, et al. Effect of acetic acid on the plasma potassium concentration in rats. J Vet Med Sci. 2005;67(9):1087-1090.
3. Ip HK, et al. Acetic acid and apple cider vinegar intake ameliorates high-fat diet induced obesity in mice via increasing energy expenditure and decreasing cholesterol absorption. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. 2015;79(8):1406-1413.
4. Yokoi K, et al. Acetic acid activates AMPK in the hippocampus. Neuroscience. 2009;158(3):867-877.
5. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Apple Cider Vinegar: In Depth. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/apple-cider-vinegar