Apple cider vinegar also known as cider vinegar or ACV is a cooking ingredient traditionally used to make things like salad dressing and marinades. But have you ever wondered if or how it can help you get healthier? There was a time when apple cider vinegar was only used to treat ailments such as the flu and remove warts. Here are some examples of its current health benefits.
Can help you lose weight
This theory was only tested once in Japan. In the study, 175 obese participants followed similar diets and wrote food journals. Some participants drank vinegar instead of water every day for 12 weeks. When the study ended participants who used vinegar lost a bit more weight.
The average participant who drank vinegar lost 1 or 2 pounds in 3 months. Only to regain it after the study ended. There is nothing wrong with adding a little apple cider vinegar to your routine. But vinegar will never replace pure water. Apple cider vinegar is also no substitute for eating less and exercising more. This one study does not say nearly enough about the relationship between apple cider vinegar and weight loss.
Helps control blood sugar and diabetes
Carol Johnston, director of the Arizona State University’s nutrition program, has studied the health benefits of apple cider vinegar for 10 years. She believes apple cider vinegar can affect blood sugar levels the same as many traditional medications. She says the vinegar can block some starch digestion, which helps keep blood sugar levels low.
Do not use apple cider vinegar if you have gastroparesis. This is a disease which slows down the emptying of your stomach. Gastroparesis is a very prevalent disease among diabetics.
Some experts fear that drinking vinegar, even if it is diluted in water, will increase acid and strain the kidneys and bones. If you are diabetic and curious trying apple cider vinegar, talk with your doctor first. Always monitor your blood sugar levels. Absolutely do not stop taking your medication and using apple cider vinegar instead.
Digestive Aid
To help with digestion, use it unfiltered. Unfiltered apple cider vinegar is filled with probiotics and other good bacteria. Unfiltered apple cider vinegar supports immune function and has helped some people with constipation.
Eating a starch-heavy meal with apple cider vinegar will feed the good stomach bacteria with the starches your body does not digest.
Tips on Taking Apple Cider Vinegar
Never drink it straight! Drinking it straight may harm your tooth enamel and esophagus. Only use a very small amount. In 300ml water dilute 1 or 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Sip it slowly once or twice a day and always with a good, healthy meal.
There are not a lot of proven facts about the potential health benefits of apple cider vinegar. Using too much can do more harm than good to the body. It cannot be stressed enough; talk to your doctor before adding apple cider vinegar or any home remedy to your health regimen.
