Apple Cider Vinegar: Is It A Probiotic? Gut Health Experts Explain

The health claims surrounding apple cider vinegar (ACV) tend to be conflicting—some say it can help manage weight and detoxify the body, while others say there's not enough evidence to prove those benefits. One thing most experts can agree on, though, is that ACV contains gut-friendly properties. 

"Technically apple cider vinegar is not a probiotic," integrative gastroenterologist Marvin Singh, M.D., tells mbg, "but it should be considered a probiotic food." Probiotic foods or drinks describe any edible item that's been fermented to contain healthy bacterias. This includes kimchi, kombucha, yogurt, and any pickled item, to name a few. 

Because the probiotic effects of apple cider vinegar may be minimal, registered dietitian Jess Cording, M.S., R.D., CND, recommends consuming a wide variety of prebiotic- and probiotic-rich foods. 

When apple cider vinegar undergoes a slow fermentation process, it creates a buildup of yeast and sugars, which contain nutritional properties, such as acetic acid, citric acid, vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients. 

This buildup of desirable micronutrients is called "the mother2," and it usually collects at the bottom of the AVC bottle or floats around in strands, making it appear cloudy. You'll find this in certain brands, like Bragg organic, raw apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar has a variety of health claims, and not all of them are backed by research. While it may not be an official probiotic on its own, apple cider vinegar does contain healthy bacteria, gut-friendly properties, and can be part of a healthy diet.