That claim—“mixing coffee with vinegar is why all women in France do this”—is a viral-style statement, not a verified fact. There is no reliable evidence that French women commonly drink coffee with vinegar, or that it’s a widespread beauty/health practice in France.
However, there are reasons people sometimes mix coffee with vinegar, and I can explain those clearly:
☕ Why Some People Mix Coffee + Vinegar
1. To reduce acidity
Some people add a splash of apple cider vinegar (ACV) to coffee because they believe it:
- reduces stomach acidity
- improves digestion
- balances pH (though the body regulates pH naturally)
⚠️ There’s limited evidence, and for many people it can actually irritate the stomach more.
2. For a “health tonic” trend
Coffee + ACV is often promoted online as:
- a weight-loss aid
- a metabolism booster
- a detox drink
But there’s no strong scientific proof that this combo provides those benefits.
3. As a “morning cleanse” ritual
Some people use it like a morning ritual—similar to lemon water or herbal tonics.
❗ Potential Downsides (Important)
- Can irritate the stomach (acid reflux, ulcers, gastritis)
- May damage tooth enamel (vinegar is acidic)
- Can lower potassium levels if consumed in large amounts
- May interact with medications (diabetes meds, diuretics, blood thinners)
✅ If You Want a “French-Style” Morning Drink Instead
French women commonly enjoy:
- black coffee (espresso)
- coffee with milk (café au lait)
- herbal teas
- warm water with lemon (sometimes)
They usually don’t mix coffee with vinegar.
🥄 A Safer Alternative If You Like the Idea
If you want a gentle version that’s less harsh:
- Add a tiny splash of ACV (1 tsp) to your coffee
- Drink it with food
- Use cold-brew coffee (less acidic)
- Rinse your mouth with water afterward