Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

Have you gone into a health food store recently and noticed bottles of apple cider vinegar stacked on the shelves?

Or perhaps you have been online and you scrolled past articles about apple cider vinegar? I was curious to find out what were the benefits of using apple cider vinegar. After some research, I have put together 6 health benefits of using apple cider vinegar.

Brief History Of Apple Cider Vinegar

For almost 5000 years people have been making use of the many health benefits that vinegar has to offer. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates prescribed vinegar and honey to help cure coughs and colds.

Samurai warriors in Japan took vinegar to give them extra strength and power. Vinegar was used in the American civil war and also in world war one to fight germs and infections.

In the 17^th century, many Europeans began using vinegar for its many medicinal purposes. It has become popular again today, as people try to limit the amount of pharmaceuticals that they consume, and instead try to heal themselves using alternative natural medicines.

Fermenting regular apple cider creates Apple cider vinegar. Bacteria work to break down the sugars and yeast.

It then transforms the broken-down sugars and yeast first into alcohol and then into apple cider vinegar containing health promoting probiotics and enzymes.

As more tests and studies are carried out, many more health benefits of apple cider vinegar will be discovered. I want to share with you six notable health benefits of using apple cider vinegar.

1. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

There is evidence that fermented foods such as apple cider vinegar containing lactic acid or acetic acid can lower blood sugar;(glucose) by helping store excess glucose in the liver.

This reduces the body’s rate of glucose production and absorption. Dilute one to two tablespoons in an 8-ounce cup of water and drink before meals to help keep blood sugar levels steady.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Can Help With Weight Loss

The acetic acid contained in apple cider vinegar helps suppresses your appetite, increases your metabolism, and reduces water retention.

Scientists also theorize that apple cider vinegar interferes with the body’s digestion of starch, which means fewer calories enter the bloodstream.

Apple cider vinegar can also kill food cravings to help kick start weight loss. Try making an apple cider vinegar weight loss drink by adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your favorite smoothie. For the best results, be sure to use it in combination with a healthy diet and active lifestyle.

3. Can Improve Skin Health

Thanks to its natural antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural treatment for healthier skin. Applied as a toner, it may help to balance the skin’s pH and has an exfoliating effect that also smooth’s and softens.

4. Soothes a Sore Throat, Cough

Take some ancient advice from Hippocrates himself to quickly banish a sore throat or cough. Simply mix 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup warm water and gargle every hour or so. The bacteria contained in apple cider vinegar can help to give your immune system a boost, especially when you are feeling under the weather.

5. Apple Cider Can Boost Energy

Apple cider vinegar contains potassium and enzymes that may relieve that tired feeling. Next time you are feeling tired, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your favorite smoothie or glass of water to help boost your energy.

6. Can Boost Gut Health

The bacteria contained in apple cider vinegar can enhance the health of your digestive system and deliver a host of added gut bacteria benefits like increased immunity and an improved ability to digest and absorb nutrients.

As you can see from the above, there are many health benefits from drinking apple cider vinegar. Other benefits include aids in detoxification, whiten teeth, muscle cramp relief, prevent indigestion, balance your pH levels and helps hair stay shiny and healthy.

If you have diabetes and are taking insulin or oral hypoglycemics, you should consult your physician prior to any apple cider vinegar consumption to reduce risks of unexpected lows.

Also, if you are currently taking prescribed medication, please consult your healthcare practitioner or doctor before using apple cider vinegar products of any kind. This can prevent any potential risks associated with herb-drug interactions.

While apple cider vinegar is healthy and safe for most people, consuming large amounts can lead to some negative effects on health. Apple cider vinegar side effects can include the erosion of tooth enamel, burning of the throat or skin and decreased levels of potassium.

Always dilute apple cider vinegar in water or in a juice or smoothie instead of drinking it straight to prevent any negative side effects. You should also start with a low dosage and work your way up to assess your tolerance.

I hope that you enjoyed reading: The Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar.