Is apple cider vinegar for babies available and safe for my baby’s consumption?
Many parents want to incorporate many herbs and other organic items when it comes to the baby’s meals.
But are they safe for the baby? This is one of the common questions every parent asks, and apple cider vinegar ranks high on the list.
Fortunately for you, we have all the answers you seek.
What is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is a liquid that is processed through the fermentation of apple fruit juice.
Bacteria help ferment the sugar present in the juice. With the addition of yeast, the cider starts to turn into alcohol, and later the alcohol turns into vinegar.
There are two main types of apple cider vinegar, filtered and unfiltered vinegar, also referred to as organic apple cider vinegar.
Apple cider vinegar is considered safe for babies.
However, it is advisable that parents be careful and, in most cases, consult their pediatrician to receive guidelines on when and how to use it.
When to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Babies
Once can introduce apple cider vinegar comfortably to babies after the age of six months.
However, since the vinegar is not a standard food item, the parent must consult a pediatrician before introducing it to a baby.
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Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for a Baby
The vinegar contains acetic acid, pectin, multivitamins such as vitamin c, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and other nutritional elements necessary during the growth and development of a child.
The following are the benefits of Apple cider vinegar for babies:
- It helps provide and boost immunity in babies.
- As a home remedy for acid reflux in babies. However, it is best to use it by including it in foods rather than giving it a supplement or a home remedy.
- Topical application of Apple cider vinegar can help treat eczema. Its acidic nature helps restore the PH balance on the baby’s skin. Contact a dermatologist before trying such home remedies.
- Oral use of apple cider vinegar and honey can help enhance mood in fussy babies.
- Apple cider vinegar can fight candida infections in babies.
- The vinegar can help tackle excess bacteria and yeast that cause recurring dandruff on the baby’s scalp.
- It helps to cure sunburns and insect bites by applying the undiluted form of Apple cider vinegar to the affected areas.
- Asthma symptoms can be controlled and reduced when using apple cider vinegar.
- To treat cough and cold.
Possible Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar
Although cider vinegar has so many benefits, it can also have some side effects, especially when used in its undiluted form.
Here are some of the side effects of Apple cider vinegar
1. Mouth and throat burn
Consuming undiluted apple cider vinegar can cause burns in the mouth and down the throat, leading to sores.
2. Tooth decay
Undiluted cider vinegar can dilute the tooth enamel and damage the teeth.
3. Skin burns
The undiluted cider vinegar can corrode the skin if applied externally. Ensure you apply the vinegar externally only after being appropriately diluted.
4. Aggravated acid reflux
Consumption of diluted apple cider vinegar excessively can cause an aggravation of the symptoms. It can also lead to stomach upsets.
Most side effects of apple cider vinegar are associated with the undiluted form or the unpasteurized version of the vinegar.
Observing good practices can help introduce the vinegar to your baby safely without any effects.
Tips to Follow When Introducing Apple Cider Vinegar to the Baby
To safely introduce apple cider vinegar to your little one, keep the following simple tips in mind:
- Never give undiluted cider to your baby. Always dilute before use.
- Use not more than 1 to 2 tablespoons per day if you use the vinegar for therapeutic purposes.
- The safest and best way to give apple cider vinegar to your baby is to add some food items, like adding a tablespoon of diluted cider vinegar to a soup. It will also provide some tangy flavor to the recipe.
- Remember to consult the pediatrician before proceeding to give your child the vinegar.
Yes, you can use normal apple cider vinegar for babies and let your baby reap its benefits.
However, ensure it is diluted and added to the baby’s food. You can also talk to your baby’s doctor before you start adding apple cider vinegar to their food.
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Iesha is a loving mother of 2 beautiful children. She’s an active parent who enjoys indoor and outdoor adventures with her family. Her mission is to share practical and realistic parenting advice to help the parenting community becoming stronger.
