Dr Zac reveals truth about Netflix show Apple Cider Vinegar

Influencers are raving about a miracle cure-all that’s featured in a hit TV show, but an Aussie doctor says there’s more to the story.

Welcome to Ask Doctor Zac, a weekly column from news.com.au. This week, Dr Zac Turner explains the truth about a wellness claim from a Netflix series.

QUESTION: Hi Dr Zac. Everyone has been talking about the new Netflix series, Apple Cider Vinegar, which tells the story of self-proclaimed wellness guru Belle Gibson and how all these natural remedies can help cure sickness and disease. I haven’t finished watching the series yet but it’s all over my TikTok and I cannot stop thinking about it, especially because my aunt has always sworn by drinking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar every morning. She’s done it for years and reckons it’s the best thing ever. I know it’s controversial but does it really do anything, like scientifically? I also follow an influencer who is big on drinking warm lemon water in the mornings, and I can’t help but wonder if that’s BS too. – Veronica, 34, Port Macquarie

ANSWER: Thank you so much for your question Veronica. It’s so important that we question influencers spouting advice without medical degrees behind their names.

Natural remedies are suddenly everywhere, from TikTok to Netflix.

The latest buzz is over Apple Cider Vinegar, and while I haven’t watched it myself, I can offer my two cents as a medical professional.

Many people are truly convinced herbal medicines and natural therapies are the secret to good health (some cultures have relied on them for centuries), but how does apple cider vinegar really stack up against modern medicine?

Now, I’m all for trying a bit of natural goodness, but let’s hit pause for a second and actually ask: Do these things work? Or are they just another trend that’s making our tummies rumble for all the wrong reasons?

Kaitlyn Dever as she appears in the Netflix series Apple Cider Vinegar based partly on the story of Belle Gibson. Picture: Ben King/Netflix

Susie Porter as Tamara in Apple Cider Vinegar. Picture: Netflix

The apple cider vinegar hype – does it live up to the claims?

First off, let’s talk about apple cider vinegar, or ACV, as it’s lovingly referred to by Instagram influencers. It’s a fermented juice made from apples that’s about as trendy as avocado toast these days.

The claims? You’re in for a treat: weight loss, improved digestion, detoxification, reduced cholesterol levels and even getting rid of bad vibes (okay, maybe not the last one … but you get the gist).

As much as I’d love to tell you that ACV is a miracle cure-all, we’ve got to be real here. The truth is, there is some scientific backing for its benefits, but it’s not as miraculous as some would like you to believe.

For instance, some studies have suggested that it might help with lowering blood sugar levels and reducing cholesterol. And yes, it can technically support weight loss when combined with a calorie-controlled diet (as though you’re going to lose weight by chugging vinegar and eating pizza).

But here’s the catch: Excessive consumption can lead to some delightful side effects, like a burning throat, upset stomach and even tooth enamel erosion — a dentist’s dream, but not yours.

Trust me, you don’t want to give up your sparkling smile for the sake of a “healthy” shot of vinegar.

Is it healthy to drink apple cider vinegar? Picture: iStock

The ‘lemon water revolution’ – a fresh start or just sour?

On to the next so-called “miracle”: lemon water. Well, this one is at least a bit more gentle on the tastebuds.

The claims for lemon water: they say it boosts hydration, improves skin health, helps with digestion and prevents kidney stones. Sounds pretty good, right? I mean, who doesn’t want glowing skin and an easily maintained figure without going to the gym?

But here’s the rub: Lemon water can be good, but it’s hardly the magical potion it’s made out to be.

The vitamin C in lemons is undoubtedly great for boosting immunity (who doesn’t want to avoid a cold in winter?) and the acidity can help with digestion — although let’s not get carried away thinking it’s some sort of gut miracle worker.

In fact, too much lemon water can actually cause your enamel to start deteriorating, especially if you’re sipping it all day long like it’s the most natural thing since sliced bread.

Think of it this way: your teeth are precious, and lemon water is basically nature’s little acid bath for them.

Lemon water is an acid bath for your teeth. Picture: iStock

Other trending natural remedies – are they just a fad?

Lemon water and ACV aren’t the only culprits making waves on social media. Let’s take a moment to discuss some of the other “miracle” remedies that have been popping up like weeds in a garden.

• Turmeric Lattes: These little golden beverages claim to work wonders for inflammation, with the turmeric said to be a natural anti-inflammatory agent. But here’s the thing: You’d need to consume a lot of turmeric to really feel any kind of benefit, and the turmeric latte you’re sipping on at your local cafe might be mostly milk and sugar with a tiny sprinkle of turmeric – definitely not a miracle cure. Sorry, folks, but that “health kick” might just be your sweet tooth calling.

• Kombucha: The fermented tea that’s half fizzy, half funky, and 100 per cent trending. Advocates swear by its ability to aid digestion and detoxify the body. But unless you’re drinking it in significant quantities, you’re probably not going to feel those miraculous effects a whole lot. Also, if you go overboard on kombucha, beware of the sugar content — and remember, too much can lead to a stomach upset.

• Matcha: Don’t even get me started on this one. Matcha fans claim it gives them the energy of a thousand suns without the crash of coffee. And while matcha does have antioxidants and a little caffeine, I wouldn’t bet my life savings on it being a game-changer in your energy levels. But hey, if it gets you through the 3pm slump, I’m not judging.

One serving of matcha has 137 times more antioxidants than regularly brewed green tea.

So, what’s the deal with all these remedies?

Look, I’m not saying you can’t enjoy a glass of lemon water in the morning or squeeze in a bit of ACV here and there. They can be refreshing and they can even be beneficial in small doses. But I’m here to remind you that these “miracle” drinks should never replace a balanced diet, proper hydration, and, of course, seeing your doctor if you have health concerns.

You can’t cure high blood pressure with a shot of vinegar (trust me), and no amount of lemon water is going to get rid of the flu. If you’re ever in doubt about what’s really working for your health, please, for the love of your gut and teeth, consult a professional.

When to drop the DIY remedies and see a doctor

Here’s a little rule of thumb: If you’re experiencing real symptoms – whether that’s persistent stomach pain, unusual weight gain or loss, headaches, or anything that just doesn’t feel right – put down the turmeric latte and call your doctor.

No amount of lemon water is going to fix a broken leg, and ACV isn’t going to cure a kidney infection. If your symptoms are severe or chronic, get proper medical advice.

So drink your lemon water, have your turmeric latte, and sprinkle a little ACV in your salad – just don’t expect them to work miracles. Your body – and your teeth – will thank you for it.

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Dr Zac Turner is a medical practitioner specialising in preventive health and wellness. He has four health/medical degrees – Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Sydney, Bachelor of Nursing at Central Queensland University, and Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He is a registrar for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, and is completing a PhD in Biomedical Engineering (UNSW). Dr Zac is the medical director for his own holistic wellness medical clinics throughout Australia, Concierge Doctors.