Apple Cider Vinegar for Kidney Stones: Benefits and Usage

Apple cider vinegar is often considered beneficial for kidney stones due to its natural acidic properties. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help dissolve kidney stones or prevent their formation. By breaking down the stones, it can potentially make them easier to pass through the urinary tract.

A study from eBioMedicine found that vinegar can prevent kidney stones by affecting how the body excretes citrate and calcium. This regulation helps prevent stones from forming or recurring.

Additionally, a 2017 study in China found that fermented vinegar positively impacts kidney stone prevention and is significantly associated with a reduced risk of stone formation.

Moreover, apple cider vinegar is known to enhance the body's alkalinity despite its acidic nature. This can help create an environment in the kidneys that is less conducive to stone formation. 

Therefore, many people believe that apple cider vinegar can be a supportive natural remedy for kidney stones when used correctly.

Apple cider vinegar offers several benefits for those dealing with kidney stones:

• Dissolves Kidney Stones: The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help break down kidney stones, making them smaller and easier to pass through the urinary system.
• Prevents New Stones: Apple cider vinegar helps to alkalize the blood and urine, creating an environment in which kidney stones are less likely to form.
• Detoxifying Properties: Its natural detoxifying properties help to flush out toxins and other minerals that can contribute to stone formation.
• Reduces Pain and Inflammation: Apple cider vinegar's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the urinary tract, providing relief during the passing of stones.

Overall, these benefits make apple cider vinegar a popular natural remedy for managing and preventing kidney stones.

According to Healthline, the recommended amount of apple cider vinegar for kidney stones is typically about 1 to 2 tablespoons per day. It is best to dilute the vinegar in 6 to 8 ounces of drinking water to make it easier to consume and gentler on the stomach. 

For best results, it is generally recommended to drink the apple cider vinegar mixture twice a day. It's advisable not to consume more than one 8-ounce glass of this mixture per day. 

Another way to incorporate apple cider vinegar is by sprinkling it onto salads or adding it to a favorite salad dressing.

It's important to start with a smaller amount, such as 1 teaspoon, to see how the body reacts. Gradually increase the dosage to the recommended 1 to 2 tablespoons. This gradual increase helps prevent any potential digestive discomfort and allows the body to adjust to the acidity of the vinegar.

While apple cider vinegar is generally safe for most people, it can cause some side effects, especially when consumed in large amounts:

• Digestive Discomfort: Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, and acid reflux. Diluting the vinegar in water can help mitigate these effects.
• Decreased Potassium Levels: Prolonged use of apple cider vinegar can lead to a decrease in potassium levels, which is crucial for muscle function and overall health.
• Tooth Enamel Erosion: The high acidity of apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel. To protect your teeth, it is advisable to drink the mixture through a straw and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

NOTE: Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or gastrointestinal issues, should consult their doctor before starting a regimen of apple cider vinegar to ensure it does not interfere with any medications or exacerbate existing health problems