Apple cider vinegar benefits for men: does it help ED?
Key takeaways
- Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made from fermented apple juice and has long been used for household cooking and cleaning.
- While there is no evidence that apple cider vinegar (by itself or with baking soda) works for erectile dysfunction (ED), there is some science supporting certain apple cider vinegar benefits for men.
- Some studies suggest ACV may promote weight loss, help control blood sugar, and improve heart and digestive health, but more research on humans is needed.
- Because consuming apple cider vinegar comes with some risks (including interactions with medications and existing conditions), you should consult a healthcare provider before trying to supplement your diet with ACV.
What is apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is essentially fermented apple juice. It undergoes two fermentation processes—yeast fermentation and acetic acid fermentation—to turn the juice into alcohol and then vinegar. ACV contains about 5% acetic acid, which gives vinegar its sour taste and smell and, according to some researchers, some of ACV’s potential benefits. Additionally, ACV contains bioactive compounds, such as carbohydrates, flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, which may also play a role in its potential health benefits.
Most commercially available bottles of ACV are diluted with water to contain about 5% ACV. You can buy pasteurized and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar, though the former is more often used for cooking or as a household cleaner, and the latter is typically consumed for health purposes.
4 apple cider vinegar benefits for men
Before getting into the potential health benefits of apple cider vinegar for men, it’s important to note that there aren’t many high-quality studies on ACV and its effect on human health. The research we do have suggests a few potential perks of ACV that can affect your overall health and, in turn, may impact your sexual health.
May improve heart health
Apple cider vinegar may help improve some important markers of heart health, including lowering cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels. For example, a 2021 meta-analysis shows ACV can help lower levels of total cholesterol, especially among patients with type 2 diabetes or in people who used ACV for more than eight weeks.
High cholesterol and cardiovascular disease are closely linked to erectile dysfunction, as arterial blockage can lead to ED symptoms years before the clinical appearance of heart disease.
Promotes weight loss and management
Some evidence suggests ACV might help with weight management. One study found that consuming a small amount of ACV daily (5 mL–15mL, diluted in water) for 4–12 weeks was associated with significant reductions in weight and body fat ratio in adolescents and young adults with overweight or obesity.
Body weight can significantly impact overall health, including sexual health. Obesity is commonly correlated with ED.
Controls blood sugar and helps reduce diabetes risk
ACV appears to help with blood sugar control. It was found that ACV consumption improved fasting plasma glucose levels, particularly when the intervention lasted at least six weeks. Improved blood sugar management reduces the risk of diabetes, a condition that’s strongly correlated with ED.
May improve digestive health
Drinking ACV could potentially improve digestive health, especially in its raw form, which retains beneficial bacteria and enzymes from the fermentation process. While there’s potential here, the science isn’t quite there, and many people report digestive distress after drinking ACV.
Does apple cider vinegar help with erectile dysfunction?
ACV may help with factors related to sexual health, but there’s no clinical evidence to support the claim that apple cider vinegar directly improves erectile dysfunction. Lifestyle changes and medications are more effective treatments for ED.
How to take apple cider vinegar
If you want to reap the potential benefits of apple cider vinegar, it’s important to dilute it properly in a large glass of water and consume it with a meal to minimize potential irritation to the stomach or esophagus. It can also be incorporated into foods like salad dressing or marinades.
Are there any risks and side effects of apple cider vinegar?
Consuming apple cider vinegar can carry potential risks, including:
- Gastrointestinal irritation: High acidity can cause stomach upset or esophageal irritation.
- Tooth enamel damage: Prolonged exposure to ACV’s high acidity can erode tooth enamel over time.
- Drug interactions: ACV may interact with medications like diuretics or insulin.
- Hypokalemia (low potassium): Excessive intake of ACV can lead to low potassium levels.
Because of the potential risks, you should consult your healthcare provider before trying ACV, especially to address a condition like erectile dysfunction.
Bottom line
Apple cider vinegar has been touted for its general health benefits, though scientific proof remains insufficient to validate these claims confidently.
If you’re considering trying ACV, keep in mind that it should be diluted, and you should be aware of potential risks. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding new supplements to your diet.