Apple cider vinegar is fermented apple juice. Acetic acid is the active ingredient in apple cider vinegar, which contains beneficial nutrients such as Vitamins B and C as well as phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron.
Apple cider vinegar is fermented twice, once from apple juice to apple cider, then again from cider to vinegar. This double fermentation results in additional health benefits, including acids, antioxidants, and enzymes. The process (and use) dates back 400 BC, the first recorded use of apple cider vinegar for medicinal purposes by Hippocrates.
Apple cider vinegar has both antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties, and as it contains both acetic acid and alpha hydroxy acid, it is often used for skin treatments. It can exfoliate your skin, absorb excess oil, and unclog your blocked pores, but the most beneficial uses of apple cider vinegar occur inside of your body.
Four Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar
#1- Improved Digestion: Apple Cider Vinegar can restore normal acid levels in your digestive system, promoting fat breakdown and elimination. Allowing your body to digest food more efficiently and thoroughly encourages nutrient absorption and overall health.
#2- Detoxification: The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar help to cleanse your kidneys, liver and lymphatic system of toxins while also reducing levels of harmful bacteria. The body’s PH balance will also stabilize with regular use. To detoxify your body, add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to at least 8 oz. of water and sip throughout the day.
#3- Lowers Cholesterol Levels A recent study suggests that apple cider vinegar can reduce your body’s blood cholesterol levels. A similar study also showed positive results for lowering blood pressure.
#4- Weight Loss Adding apple cider vinegar to your daily diet will help you feel fuller, which will help you eat less. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, which promotes weight loss and lowers your risk of diabetes. For weight loss, drink one glass a day of two tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar in 8 oz. of water. You may need to add one or two tablespoons of honey as a sweetener. Start with two tablespoons of vinegar and see how your body responds. If you experience stomach upset, reduce the mix to one tablespoon.
Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
Unfortunately, apple cider vinegar may cause some side effects, especially in large doses:
Delayed Gastric Emptying: Apple cider vinegar has been shown to delay the rate at which food leaves your stomach, which may worsen gastroparesis symptoms.
Indigestion: Apple cider vinegar can cause an upset stomach and unpleasant digestive symptoms. Reduce your intake by 50% and see if symptoms subside.
Damage to Tooth Enamel: Vinegar, including apple cider vinegar, is highly acidic, and overuse may cause tooth enamel erosion.
Dangerous Drug Interactions: Three classes of prescription medications are known to interact with apple cider vinegar: Insulin and insulin stimulating drugs like Glucotrol or Amaryl, heart medications Digoxin or Lanoxin , and a variety of diuretic drugs that promote urination. If you are prescribed these medications, consult your physician before using apple cider vinegar!