But just what are the benefits of apple cider vinegar, and how can you maximize these in your daily life? We took a closer look at all you need to know.
What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apples. It’s been used for centuries as a natural remedy for everything from stomach ailments to skin conditions.
Today, it’s widely regarded as one of nature’s most powerful superfoods.
The main active ingredient in apple cider vinegar is acetic acid. This compound helps break down fat cells, which makes them easier to digest.
In addition, it also boosts metabolism, improves digestion, lowers cholesterol levels, and even fights cancer.
Why Should I Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Health And Beauty?
Apple cider vinegar has long been touted as a health and beauty wonder kid, but just what benefits can it offer? Some of the main advantages of apple cider vinegar include.
Fighting Free Radicals
Apple cider vinegar contains high amounts of antioxidants that help fight free radicals.
These molecules are responsible for damaging cell structures within our bodies, leading to premature aging and disease.
Antioxidants neutralize these harmful compounds, protecting us against cellular damage.
High In Key Vitamins and Minerals
Apple cider vinegar is also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc.
All of these elements play important roles in maintaining healthy bones, teeth, muscles, and nerves.
They’re also essential for the proper functioning of the heart, liver, kidneys, and other organs.
Improves Digestion
Apple cider vinegar is also thought to play a key role in improving digestion – especially when taken on an empty stomach.
According to some studies, this effect may be due to its ability to stimulate gastric juices.
Allowing apple cider vinegar to work more effectively than any other digestive aid.
Those suffering from constipation can also find relief using apple cider vinegar; according to some research, it’s effective at relieving symptoms such as bloating, gas, and cramping, as well as constipation and acute diarrhea.
This is thought to be due to its ability to reduce intestinal bacteria that cause inflammation and blockages.
Boosts Energy Levels
Another study showed that drinking apple cider vinegar before bedtime improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue during the following morning.
This could be due to the fact that apple cider vinegar helps lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.
Promotes Weight Loss
According to some experts, apple cider vinegar can play a key role in weight loss, (see also: How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Hair Loss)and this is likely due to its ability to boost metabolism.
One study found that obese women who consumed apple cider vinegar experienced significant reductions in body mass index (BMI).
Another study found that overweight men who added apple cider vinegar to their diets saw similar results.
In fact, one study found that people who drank two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar every day for 12 weeks lost nearly three times as much belly fat as those who didn’t drink apple cider vinegar.
Researchers believe this was because the vinegar helped boost their metabolic rate.
Treats Acne
Some studies have shown that apple cider vinegar can help treat acne (see also: How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Acne)by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
It’s believed that this occurs because of the presence of vitamin A, and B complex vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Reduces Cholesterol Levels
One study found that adding apple cider vinegar to your diet can significantly improve cholesterol levels.
Participants were given either 1 tablespoon or 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar daily for six months.
Those who took the higher dose had significant decreases in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.
Protects Against Cancer
A number of studies suggest that apple cider vinegar has cancer-fighting properties.
For example, one study found that mice exposed to radiation had fewer tumors if they were fed apple cider vinegar before exposure.
Other studies have suggested that apple cider vinegar may protect against colon cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and leukemia.
When Should You Take Apple Cider Vinegar?
There are many ways to take advantage of the benefits of apple cider vinegar. Some experts recommend taking it on an empty stomach, while others say it works best when taken 30 minutes before meals.
However, there isn’t any scientific evidence to support these recommendations.
The only way to know what will work best for you is to experiment. Start out by trying half a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed into water.
If you don’t like the taste, try increasing the amount until you reach the desired consistency.
The recommended dosage varies from person to person. According to the Mayo Clinic, adults should consume about 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar per day.
Children under 18 years old should start off with 1/2 teaspoon and gradually build up to 1 teaspoon.
Apple cider vinegar is available at most grocery stores and health food stores. Be sure to check the expiration date, so you’re not buying expired apple cider vinegar.
Final Thoughts
Apple cider vinegar has long been touted for a myriad of health benefits, and new research continues to validate these claims.
While more studies need to be conducted to determine exactly how apple cider vinegar affects our bodies, preliminary findings show that it can reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, fight cancer, and even aid in weight loss.
All aspects of health are incredibly important in keeping us at the top of our game when it matters most. But many people choose to ignore the health that they cannot see - including the gut, cognitive, respiratory, and more.
Hi, my name is Adam Maxwell and I have been a medical professional for over 20 years. My wife is also in the same field, having been a trained clinical psychologist for 15 years.
Between us, we have seen a fair amount of health-related issues!
