Does Baking Soda with Apple Cider Vinegar Actually Help You Lose Weight?

What happens when you combine an acid and a base in a glass—and drink it for weight loss? Sounds like a science experiment, yet many are doing just that by mixing baking soda and apple cider vinegar for weight loss.

The fizzing combo is gaining traction on social media and wellness blogs, promising reduced belly bloat, better digestion, and appetite control. But what’s behind the buzz? Can this drink actually help you slim down—or is it just another health myth dressed up in a mason jar?

This article breaks down what the research says, how to use it safely, and what results to expect. If you’re curious whether this daily ritual can support your fat-loss journey, read on before you sip.

Why This Combo Is So Popular

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) and baking soda are both praised individually for their health effects. Combining them feels like a shortcut—an amplified version of both.

The Claims:

• Flatten belly bloating

• Suppress appetite

• Regulate blood sugar

• Detox the body

• Boost metabolism

• Burn belly fat

It’s easy, cheap, and doesn’t require fancy supplements or workouts. But the real question is: does science agree?

Breaking Down the Ingredients

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

• Rich in acetic acid, which may:

  • Improve insulin sensitivity

  • Suppress appetite

  • Promote fat metabolism

  • Support digestion

  • Reduce blood sugar spikes

Baking Soda

• Chemically known as sodium bicarbonate

• May help:

  • Neutralize stomach acid

  • Ease indigestion

  • Reduce bloating and gas

  • Balance body pH (though your body regulates it naturally)

When mixed together, the acidic vinegar and alkaline baking soda create carbon dioxide—resulting in a fizzy drink some find more palatable than raw vinegar alone.

What Science Actually Says

Apple Cider Vinegar and Weight Loss:

• A Japanese clinical study showed:

  • 1 tbsp/day → 2.6 lbs lost in 12 weeks

  • 2 tbsp/day → 3.7 lbs lost in 12 weeks

• A 2024 Lebanese trial found:

  • 30 mL/day → 6–8 kg (13–17 lbs) lost over 12 weeks (with calorie restriction)

Baking Soda:

• No clinical evidence for fat loss

• May aid digestion by reducing acid and gas

• Overuse can cause side effects (bloating, nausea, electrolyte imbalance)

Combined Together?

• There’s no research proving this mix directly burns fat

• But some anecdotal reports suggest it may help reduce bloating, cravings, and appetite

How to Make the Baking Soda Apple Cider Vinegar Weight Loss Drink

Basic Recipe

• 1 tablespoon ACV (raw, organic, with “the mother”)

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• 8–10 oz water

• Optional: squeeze of lemon or pinch of cinnamon for taste

How to Prepare:

1. Add baking soda to a glass.

2. Slowly pour in the ACV and let it fizz.

3. Once the bubbling settles, add water and mix.

4. Drink slowly. Use a straw to protect your teeth.

Best Timing:

• Morning on an empty stomach (to curb cravings)

• 15–30 minutes before your largest meal

• After meals (if using to ease digestion)

Expected Weight Loss Results: What’s Realistic?

You won’t lose 10 pounds overnight—but small, steady shifts are possible.

📌 Best results happen when this drink is paired with clean eating, hydration, and light movement.

Who Might Benefit Most from This Drink

You may notice real support if you:

• Struggle with post-meal bloating or heaviness

• Tend to overeat or snack between meals

• Want a simple habit to anchor your morning or lunch

• Are easing into healthier eating and need a daily “reset”

• Have trouble drinking raw ACV alone due to taste

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overusing baking soda
   
   → More is not better. Stick to ¼ tsp max. Too much can affect sodium levels and digestion.

2. Skipping water
   
   → Undiluted vinegar or baking soda can irritate your throat or stomach.

3. Using it as a meal replacement
   
   → This is a support drink, not a substitute for nourishment.

4. Expecting it to work alone
   
   → It supports fat loss. It doesn’t replace calorie control or movement.

When to Avoid This Drink

Speak with your doctor before trying if you:

• Have acid reflux, ulcers, or digestive sensitivity

• Are on sodium-restricted diets

• Take insulin, heart meds, or diuretics

• Have kidney issues or chronic conditions

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Start slow. Begin with half doses and observe how your body responds.

Other Ingredients to Boost the Effect

Try adding one or more of the following to your drink:

• Lemon juice: Boosts metabolism and detox

• Cinnamon: Helps balance blood sugar

• Ginger: Eases nausea and supports digestion

• Cayenne: Mild thermogenic boost

• Raw honey or stevia: For a more pleasant taste

Real-World Use Cases

Busy professionals

Use in the morning instead of coffee to start light, reduce cravings, and improve digestion before a long desk day.

Intermittent fasters

Drink 20 minutes before your first meal to reduce appetite and avoid blood sugar spikes.

Evening bloat relief

Use after dinner to ease gas and help your stomach settle before sleep.

7-Day ACV + Baking Soda Kickstart Plan

Day 1–2: Start with ½ tbsp ACV + ⅛ tsp baking soda + 8 oz water

Day 3–5: Increase to 1 tbsp ACV + ¼ tsp baking soda

Day 6–7: Add cinnamon or lemon to experiment with flavor and effects

Track your:

• Cravings

• Digestion

• Appetite

• Bloating

• Weight or waist changes (optional)

FAQ: Baking Soda Apple Cider Vinegar Weight Loss

Does this drink actually help with weight loss?

Indirectly. ACV may reduce appetite and support fat metabolism. Baking soda may ease bloating and digestion. Together, they support—not replace—weight loss efforts.

How often should I drink it?

Once per day is enough. Maximum: twice daily, short-term. Always dilute.

Can I drink this long-term?

It’s best used in 2–3 week cycles, with breaks to avoid baking soda overuse.

Will it burn belly fat specifically?

Not directly. But it may reduce bloating and curb cravings, contributing to a flatter waistline.

What’s the best time to drink it?

Morning or before your largest meal. Avoid late night use if you’re prone to reflux.

What if I hate the taste?

Add lemon, ginger, or cinnamon. Or blend into a smoothie.

What type of ACV should I use?

Use raw, organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with “the mother” for best results.

Is It Worth Trying?

If you’re seeking a low-effort habit to support your weight loss journey, baking soda apple cider vinegar weight loss drinks can help—but only when used smartly.

They’re not a miracle. But they can support digestion, flatten bloat, and help you manage cravings when paired with healthy eating and movement.

Action Plan

1. Try the drink daily for 7 days

2. Use it before your largest meal

3. Track your digestion, energy, and appetite

4. Adjust ingredients to your taste and tolerance

5. Pair with water, fiber-rich meals, and light activity

Want a printable drink planner, habit tracker, or customizable recipe card? Just say the word—I’ll prepare it for you.