Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been used for hundreds of years as an all natural remedy for many health conditions. Some of the benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar include:
- Aids in digestion: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) contains acetic acid, which can help stimulate the production of stomach acid and improve digestion. Stomach acid is important for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, and low levels of stomach acid can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. When ACV is consumed before a meal, it can help increase the acidity of the stomach, which can improve digestion. This can be particularly beneficial for people who have low levels of stomach acid or who experience digestive issues after eating. In addition to acetic acid, ACV also contains enzymes and probiotics that can help support healthy digestion. Enzymes are important for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, while probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support a healthy gut microbiome.
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the body to help regulate blood sugar levels by ordering cells to absorb glucose(sugar) from the bloodstream. In people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, cells become less responsive to insulin, which can lead to high blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that ACV may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels after meals. One study found that consuming 2 tablespoons of ACV before a meal led to a 20% reduction in blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. ACV may also help reduce the glycemic index (GI) of foods, which is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI can cause blood sugar levels to spike, while foods with a low GI are absorbed more slowly and can help regulate blood sugar levels. ACV has been shown to help reduce the GI of high-carbohydrate foods, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Supports weight loss: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may support weight loss in a few different ways. First, ACV may help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss. One study found that consuming ACV with a high-carbohydrate meal led to increased feelings of fullness and reduced calorie intake throughout the day. Second, ACV may help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for weight loss. High blood sugar levels can lead to increased hunger and cravings, while low blood sugar levels can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels. By regulating blood sugar levels, ACV may help reduce hunger and cravings and improve energy levels, which can support weight loss efforts. Finally, ACV may help increase fat burning and reduce fat storage in the body. One study found that consuming ACV daily led to a reduction in body weight, body fat percentage, and waist circumference in overweight adults.
- Improves heart health: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may improve heart health in a few different ways. First, ACV contains acetic acid, which has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels. High cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues like heart disease and stroke. One study found that consuming ACV daily led to a reduction in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), and triglycerides in people with high cholesterol levels. Second, ACV may help reduce blood pressure, which is another risk factor for heart disease. High blood pressure will damage the arteries and greatly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. One study found that consuming ACV daily led to a reduction in systolic blood pressure (the top number) in people with high blood pressure. Finally, ACV contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is a common risk factor for many chronic diseases, including heart disease.
- Boosts immune function: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may help boost immune function in a few different ways. First, ACV contains acetic acid, which has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. This means that it can help kill harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections. Second, ACV contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation. Chronic inflammation can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections and other health problems. Finally, ACV contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help support a healthy gut microbiome. The gut microbiome plays an important role in immune function, and an imbalance of gut bacteria can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections.
- Improves skin health: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may improve skin health in a few different ways. First, ACV has antimicrobial properties, which means it can help kill harmful bacteria that can cause skin infections and acne. ACV can be used topically as a natural toner to help reduce the appearance of acne and other skin conditions. Second, ACV contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help exfoliate the skin and improve skin texture. AHAs can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can help reduce the appearance of acne and other skin conditions. Finally, ACV contains antioxidants, which can help protect the skin against oxidative stress and damage from free radicals. Free radicals can damage the skin and contribute to premature aging and other skin problems. It’s important to note that while ACV may offer some skin health benefits, it should be used with caution and should not be applied directly to the skin without dilution. Undiluted ACV can be too acidic for the skin and can cause irritation and damage. It’s best to speak with a dermatologist before using ACV topically to determine if it’s safe for you.
It’s important to note that while ACV may offer some health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation and should not be used as a replacement for other medical treatments or lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Drinking too much ACV can cause side effects such as tooth enamel erosion, throat irritation, and digestive upset. It’s best to speak with a healthcare provider before adding ACV to your diet to determine if it’s safe for you.
Apple Cinder Vinegar should be used in it’s raw unfiltered, organic state and should contain “the mother”. The mother is the culture of bacteria that turns apple cider into vinegar. These beneficial bacteria give ACV a more hazy look. Any organic or unfiltered should contain the mother. ACV with the mother is known to have higher health benefits.
ACV should also be diluted in water to cut the acidity. 1 to 2 tablespoons of ACV per 8 oz of water.