Episode 31: Amy B. Scher - Mind, Body + Spirit Healing [e0f208]

Post Time: 2025-07-29

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has long been touted as a natural remedy for various health issues, from weight management to improved skin. Recently, **ACV gummies** have emerged as a more palatable alternative to the traditional liquid form. But the big question remains: **do these gummies actually help with digestion issues**? In this article, we will delve deep into the science, the claims, and the practical realities to uncover whether ACV gummies are worth incorporating into your digestive health routine. ACV itself has a history of use in folk medicine, and its purported benefits stem largely from the acetic acid it contains. Acetic acid can promote digestive function and regulate blood sugar levels. However, these effects might be quite different from what many people experience in their day-to-day routine. It’s also important to understand the **primary digestive issues** that people frequently face, such as: * Bloating and Gas * Acid Reflux * Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms * Slow digestion * Constipation We will investigate whether the claims that ACV gummies assist with such issues stand up to scrutiny. This exploration is important as self-treating digestive issues can have unintended health implications. --- # The Science Behind ACV and Digestive Health The key ingredient that underpins the claimed benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar is **acetic acid**. This compound is formed when alcohol ferments to form vinegar, and it is what provides ACV with its characteristic pungent odor and flavor. It is suggested that acetic acid has multiple digestive benefits, but these are largely based on preliminary research which often focuses on animals or utilizes liquid ACV. For example: * **Improved Nutrient Absorption**: Some research suggests that the acetic acid in ACV could improve nutrient absorption, particularly in the context of the digestive system by increasing the efficiency of your gut at absorbing nutrients. This may reduce the potential for stomach upset. * **Reduced Bloating**: ACV might help in reducing bloating by supporting the proper pH balance in the stomach. Many believe that a more acidic environment helps to break down food more effectively and promote better gut motility. However, this is where evidence gets a little murky. Studies conducted on a small number of individuals did not find a notable reduction in bloating. * **Balancing Gut Bacteria**: While the theory has some appeal, more research is needed on whether ACV can create a healthier microbiome in humans. An improved gut microbiome can be essential for proper digestion, thus supporting the efficacy of ACV. Let's look at the impact that **ACV has on specific health issues**. This table summarizes some research data relating to ACV and various conditions: | Digestive Issue | Suggested Mechanism | Research Results and Evidence | | ----------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Bloating** | Enhanced breakdown of food, potential reduction in gas | Mixed evidence. Some anecdotal benefits but few controlled studies show a statistically significant difference | | **Acid Reflux** | Improvement in stomach pH | Results are often contradictory. Some report relief, others report an increase in symptoms. | | **Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)** | May aid in bacterial balance | Very limited studies. No definitive research to show if ACV helps with IBS. | | **Constipation** | Potentially speeds up gut motility | Very limited research. Needs further investigation. | It's important to note that while traditional ACV is used in these ways, the amount of ACV found in **gummies** is typically much lower and diluted. This brings us to an important practical discussion. The acetic acid found in pure ACV is often between 5 and 6%. ACV gummies often contain as little as 0.5 - 2%, meaning the dose is significantly diluted, raising important questions regarding how effective they are. --- # Are ACV Gummies as Effective as Liquid ACV? One of the most important distinctions to make is between traditional liquid ACV and its gummy counterpart. Here’s a breakdown: * **Concentration of Acetic Acid**: As discussed earlier, ACV gummies generally have a significantly lower concentration of acetic acid compared to liquid ACV. A typical serving of liquid ACV is about 1-2 tablespoons, which could contain around 5% acetic acid. Many ACV gummies, however, have drastically lower amounts. The dilution factor suggests that the efficacy of gummies in terms of digestive benefits is probably significantly reduced. * **Added Sugars and Ingredients**: To improve palatability, ACV gummies often contain added sugars, sweeteners, and artificial flavors. These added ingredients may actually *work against* any potential digestive benefits from the acetic acid. Too much sugar, for example, is not beneficial to gut health. Some gummy additives also include artificial colorings that some individuals find can trigger sensitive guts. * **Bioavailability**: Whether the acetic acid in the gummies is as easily absorbed by the body as the liquid form remains unclear. The matrix of the gummy and other additives might affect bioavailability. Without proper studies, it’s difficult to say conclusively how much of the diluted acid the body can absorb and utilise. A comparison in typical active ingredients between liquid and gummy ACV is demonstrated below: | Ingredient/Factor | Liquid ACV (per 1 tbsp) | ACV Gummies (per serving - approx 2) | | ------------------- | -------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- | | **Acetic Acid** | 5-6% | 0.5 - 2% | | **Sugar** | 0g | 2-5g + (usually other artificial sweeteners) | | **Other Additives** | Very minimal (sometimes water) | Colorings, gelling agents, natural or artificial flavors | | **Volume of Liquid**| Typically about 15ml | Typically a similar dose equivalent (2-3ml per gummy) | This table illustrates the difference in concentration. In order to obtain the same quantity of active acetic acid, one might have to ingest 5 - 10 times more gummies to achieve the same result as 1 tablespoon of pure liquid ACV. Furthermore, the production process for creating the gummies often involves heat. The efficacy of the acetic acid can be reduced through this, potentially nullifying the theoretical benefits altogether. --- # How to Use ACV Gummies Safely Despite the potential limitations, if you're considering ACV gummies, it’s crucial to do so safely. Here's what you should keep in mind: 1. **Follow the Recommended Dosage**: Start with the recommended serving size on the product label and see how your body reacts. Do not exceed this amount. 2. **Be Aware of Sugar Content**: If you have issues with sugar levels or a sensitive gut, pay close attention to the sugar content of the gummies. It is advisable to avoid brands with added artificial sweeteners. Consider opting for brands which use natural sources or natural sweeteners and sugars. 3. **Consider Timing**: Take the gummies as directed, typically with food, to minimize any potential for stomach upset. 4. **Consult Your Healthcare Provider**: If you have any underlying health conditions, particularly digestive issues or diabetes, consult a healthcare provider before introducing ACV gummies into your routine. There may be interactions with medication or certain other contraindications. 5. **Monitor Your Body**: Keep a journal of your experience. Record what you feel after taking the gummies and identify any improvements or symptoms. This will help inform you whether the gummies are right for you. | Safety Checklist | Key Points | | ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Dosage** | Always follow the product instructions; avoid excess consumption| | **Sugar** | Consider sugar content, especially if sensitive | | **Timing** | Take with food to minimize stomach upset | | **Medical History** | Consult a doctor if you have underlying conditions | | **Monitoring** | Keep track of how the gummies impact you | Ultimately, understanding that the dose of ACV found in gummies is often so significantly lower compared to other forms may change people's opinions as to their worth. --- # Real-World Experiences and What to Expect It's useful to also take into account the feedback of those who have used these products in the real world. Online forums and product reviews often paint a mixed picture. Here’s what real people have said: * **Some people report feeling an improvement in digestion**. This usually revolves around less bloating or the feeling of improved food digestion. However, these reviews are frequently subjective and difficult to ascertain their genuine merit. * **Many have found ACV gummies ineffective.** For most, there have been very little discernible differences when using ACV gummies over long periods. * **Some people note side effects**. Some reported stomach discomfort and heartburn as common side effects. Many attributed this to taking them on an empty stomach or as a result of the acidity and high sugar content. * **Others find the convenience appealing**. Many preferred the ease of consumption over liquid versions of ACV, even if they admitted efficacy may be less. It is clear, therefore, that what individuals report is often a mixture of placebo effects, wishful thinking and the occasional side effect. Given the dilution of acetic acid and high level of additives and sugars, the idea that gummies are effective seems highly unlikely. This leads us to consider other options for improving digestion. --- # Alternatives to ACV Gummies for Digestive Health If ACV gummies don’t live up to the hype, what are some effective alternatives for improving digestive health? Here are some recommendations: * **Dietary Changes**: Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. * **Foods high in fiber** include beans, apples, broccoli and oats. * **Hydration**: Ensure you're drinking enough water. Staying well-hydrated helps keep digestion regular. The recommended intake is usually around 2 liters of water per day. * **Probiotics**: Consider taking probiotic supplements or eating foods like yogurt or kefir which can support a healthy gut microbiome. **Probiotic bacteria** are thought to be associated with multiple health benefits and play an important role in proper digestive function. * **Enzyme Supplements**: Certain enzyme supplements may help break down food more effectively. Consult a doctor for personalized recommendations. * **Reduce stress**: Increased levels of stress can impact on digestion. Consider meditation, yoga, and exercise to lower levels of stress in your daily life. * **Regular Exercise**: Engage in regular physical activity. Here’s a quick comparative look at these alternatives: | Alternative Method | Description | Benefits | | --------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Fiber-Rich Diet** | Eating foods high in fiber | Promotes regular bowel movements, aids in satiety | | **Hydration** | Drinking 2 liters of water per day | Keeps stool soft, helps to digest and metabolize food | | **Probiotics** | Consuming beneficial bacteria via supplements or food | Improves gut microbiome balance, may aid in digestion | | **Enzyme Supplements** | Enzymes to aid in specific types of food breakdown | Can alleviate symptoms like bloating and gas | | **Stress Reduction** | Exercise, meditation, yoga | Reduced Cortisol impact, leading to a happier, more productive digestive system | In conclusion, the idea that **ACV gummies are an effective option for digestive health is yet to be properly demonstrated with rigorous scientific testing**. Given the nature of how they are often processed, as well as the lower concentration of the active ingredient, the more effective options often reside within diet, regular exercise and good habits. Be sure to speak to a healthcare provider before self-treating any underlying health issues and choose dietary methods that suit your needs best. MEET AMY B SCHER Amy B Scher is an energy therapist, expert in mind-body healing, and the bestselling author of the wildly popular HOW TO HEAL YOURSELF book series. Her books have been translated into over 20 languages. Amy helps people break through blocks to become their happiest, do keto acv gummies work for weight loss healthiest, and most creative selves. Her work has been featured in Oprah Daily, CNN, CBS, Washington Post, Cosmopolitan, Good Morning America, and more. She lives in New York City with her fyvus keto acv gummies beautiful wife and bad cat, keto acv gummies work where they are always searching for the next best meal or watching another episode of the Golden Girls for the thousandth time. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT - Amy’s Healing Journey: From Chronic Illness to Recovery - Discovering the Mind-Body Connection in Healing - The Role of Fear, Trauma, and Emotional Baggage in Chronic Illness - Breaking Free from Perfectionism and People-Pleasing for Better Health - Tools for Releasing Stuck Emotions: Thymus Tapping, EFT, and The Sweep - Shifting the Body's Stress Response: Feeling Safe and Empowered - Success Stories: Transformative Healing from Anxiety and Depression - Navigating Skepticism and the "Woo-Woo" Factor in Holistic Health - Insights from Amy’s Books and How They Guide Self-Healing - Using Amy’s Oracle Deck for Self-Reflection and Emotional Healing EPISODE RESOURCES BiOptimizers Digestive health supplements from BiOptimizers aid nutrient absorption and support energy, essential for foundational wellness. Use code thetrailtohealth for 10% OFF. Integrative Peptides Immune-boosting products from Integrative Peptides are excellent for inflammation management, and ideal for supporting long-term healing. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF. BodyBio Cellular health and detox supplements from BodyBio help fortify the immune system from the inside out! Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF. Pique Tea Pique Tea adaptogenic teas that reduce stress and support immune health, perfect for daily wellness routines. Qualia Life Cellular longevity supplements from Qualia Life enhance energy and clarity, supporting mental and physical vitality. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF. Quicksilver Scientific Quicksilver Scientific offer liposomal supplements for gentle detox, ideal for stress reduction and immune support. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF. Goli ACV and adaptogenic gummies from Goli support digestion and mood, perfect for simple, everyday wellness. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 5% OFF. The Chronic Illness and Trauma Series: 30+ Diseases Increased by Adversity This article from Chronic Illness Trauma Studies dives into how chronic illnesses like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and chronic fatigue syndrome are linked to trauma and adverse experiences. It provides insights into how understanding these links can offer new tools for healing. CONNECT WITH AMY B SCHER Website Instagram Facebook KEYWORDS healing, chronic illness, mind-body connection, emotional baggage, beliefs, mindset, feeling safe, honesty, stress release, emotions, self-healing, anxiety, depression, emotional healing, Oracle Card deck, trauma healing, alternative medicine, emotional resilience, self-compassion, healing journey, subconscious mind, inner work, energy healing, personal transformation, somatic therapy, immune system support, mental wellness, emotional blockages, nervous system health, holistic wellness, positive psychology, emotional awareness, spiritual healing --- Find me on social media! Instagram: Instagram: Facebook: Twitter: Pinterest: TikTok: @thetrailtohealthEpisode 31: Amy B. Scher - Mind, Body + Spirit Healing [e0f208]