Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its many health benefits and versatility in the home. It’s been used for centuries in both cooking and traditional medicine, but to be honest I never really understood just how beneficial acv was until last year.
After being warned by my doctor to cut back on sugar and make some lifestyle changes, I really started to look at my diet and the way food affects our bodies more closely. I was specifically interested in finding healthy, natural ways to manage my blood sugar when I came across acv. (Always consult with your primary health provider to make sure something would be suitable for your diet.)
So, if you’ve been looking for a similar solution or just another healthy ingredient to incorporate into your daily routine, read on!
The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
1. Helps Digestion
One of the best-known benefits of apple cider vinegar is its ability to improve digestion. Being rich in acetic acid, apple cider vinegar can increase the acidity of the stomach, making it easier to break down food and absorb nutrients. Additionally, it can relieve symptoms of indigestion and acid reflux.
2. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Apple cider vinegar can be an ally for people looking to control their blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that the acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity and lower postprandial (after meal) glucose levels.
3. Helps Weight Loss
Apple cider vinegar can also help those looking to lose weight. Some research articles I’ve read have noted that drinking apple cider vinegar can increase the feeling of satiety, which helps reduce the amount of food consumed. In addition, it contributes to the reduction of body fat and long-term weight control.
4. Improves Skin and Hair Health
Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit skin health if used as a skin toner. You can DIY your own toner or do a quick online search to find skincare products that list it as an ingredient. However, it is important to do a test on a small area of skin to make sure it does not cause irritation.
On top of being great for skin, acv can be used as a hair rinse to balance pH, reduce frizz, exfoliate the scalp, and even promote healthy growth! To make a rinse, you just need 2 tablespoons of acv mixed with at least 16 oz of water. You can also add in some lemon juice or essential oils. Just adding this to your routine a few times a month can help pave the way to healthier hair!
5. Detoxifies the Body
Apple cider vinegar can aid in detoxifying the body by promoting liver function and the elimination of toxins. This means more energy! An easy way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your daily diet, is either including it in your salad dressings or diluting it in water. My favorite way though is to mix it in with flavored seltzers. (It’s like my own kombucha!)
Including apple cider vinegar in your life can be a simple and effective way to improve your overall well-being. Try out acv in one of the ways mentioned above and let me know if there are other ways you all are incorporating it into your life!
Disclaimer: Although it is a safe product for most people, it is important to consume it in moderation and to always dilute it to avoid possible adverse effects. If you are considering incorporating apple cider vinegar into your daily routine, make sure to consult with a health professional first, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
Good information