Should i give apple cider vinegar to my child?

What the evidence says

Apple cider vinegar is popular online as a home remedy for all sorts of things, from tummy troubles to weight control. But when researchers actually looked at the science, they didn't find good proof it works for any of these uses in children or adults.

In Canada, apple cider vinegar is only officially approved as a flavour enhancer, not as a health product with any medical claim. That means Health Canada has not reviewed or approved it for treating any condition in kids.

There are real safety concerns, too. Doctors have reported cases where drinking vinegar, including apple cider vinegar, caused burns and ulcers in the esophagus, the tube that carries food to the stomach. Other reports describe teenagers getting tooth erosion, where the hard outer layer of teeth wears away, from drinking it daily to try to lose weight.

Because vinegar is acidic, it can also upset a child's stomach, irritate their throat, or interact badly with any medicines they take. There's no dose known to be both safe and useful for children.

Given all this, most experts would say it's better to skip apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for kids. If you're dealing with a specific symptom like reflux, constipation, or skin problems, it's worth talking to your child's doctor about treatments that actually have evidence behind them.