Apple cider vinegar is a liquid made from fermented apples. From ancient times, apple cider vinegar has often been used for many different purposes, from health and beauty treatments to culinary uses.
However, its recent resurgence in popularity is due largely to the emerging evidence of its impressive health benefits. Apple cider vinegar contains a range of vitamins and minerals that are responsible for helping with things like digestion, weight control, blood sugar levels, and more!
In this blog post, we will explore 15 extraordinary health benefits of apple cider vinegar that you may not have realized existed until now.
Introducing Apple Cider Vinegar
For 5,000 years, Apple Cider Vinegar has been a celebrated part of recorded history. From Babylonians to Egyptians and Chinese – it was used as both an ingredient for food preparation and preservation thousands of years ago!
Archaeological evidence points to its usage in 3000 BC Egypt and 1200 BC China. Thus, apple cider vinegar is one of the oldest household staples.
Apple cider vinegar is derived from fermented apple juice, turning it into a powerful and multi-purpose liquid that can be used as an ingredient in recipes as well as for its medicinal properties.
The fermentation process occurs in two stages: crushed apples are combined with yeast to turn sugar into alcohol, and then enzymes turn the alcohol into vinegar.
The fermentation process converts the natural sugars in apples into acetic acid, giving it a tangy taste with a slightly sweet taste, making it ideal for salad dressings, marinades, food preservatives, and numerous other culinary uses.
It’s also popularly consumed as a health drink due to its immense health benefits.
Nutrition Information
Apple cider vinegar is a low-calorie drink that provides various nutrients, including acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics, and enzymes. One tablespoon (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar contains approximately three calories and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates.
Filtered vs. Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can either be filtered or unfiltered. Filtered apple cider vinegar is clear and has a milder taste, while unfiltered apple cider vinegar contains what is known as the “mother.”
The mother is a web-like substance that forms during fermentation and contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes. Unfiltered apple cider vinegar is usually cloudy and has a stronger taste.
Here are the 15 Proven Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
1. Apple cider vinegar may help kill harmful bacteria
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties, and studies have shown that it may help kill harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella. These bacteria can cause various infections, including food poisoning and stomach ulcers.
2. Apple cider vinegar may help with prostate health.
Research has shown that apple cider vinegar may help with prostate health. A study conducted on rats showed that the acetic acid found in apple cider vinegar helped reduce the size of the prostate gland. However, more research must be conducted on humans to determine their effectiveness.
3. Apple cider vinegar may help with digestion.
There is no scientific evidence that apple cider vinegar helps with bloating. However, apple cider vinegar may help with digestion by increasing the production of stomach acid.
Stomach acid helps to break down food and aids in the absorption of nutrients. Apple cider vinegar is also an antimicrobial substance. It also contains enzymes that can help improve digestion.
4. Apple cider vinegar may help improve Cardiovascular Health.
Some studies in rats have shown that drinking apple cider vinegar may help improve cardiovascular health by reducing triglyceride levels and lowering blood pressure.
Triglycerides are fats found in the blood, and high levels can increase the risk of heart disease. Additionally, high blood pressure can also increase the risk of heart disease.
5. Apple cider vinegar may regulate body PH.
Apple cider vinegar has an alkalizing effect on the body, which can help regulate pH levels. pH levels are important for overall health, and imbalances can lead to various health issues.
6. Apple cider vinegar may help improve skin health.
One of the health benefits of apple cider vinegar which has been popular for centuries is its topical usage to improve skin health.
Although there is limited scientific research backing that it helps reduce acne and improve the skin’s overall appearance, recent advances in understanding Propionibacterium acnes (Cutibacterium acnes) suggest that taking diluted apple cider vinegar may help reduce acne.
7. Apple cider vinegar may help to Fight Inflammation.
Inflammation is a natural body response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to several health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
Apple cider vinegar has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body. According to a study, acetic acid in Apple cider vinegar can inhibit the activity of certain inflammatory enzymes, thus reducing inflammation.
8. Apple cider vinegar may help to calm Acid Reflux.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other digestive problems. apple cider vinegar may help to calm acid reflux by balancing the pH level in the stomach.
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, aiding digestion and preventing acid reflux.
9. Apple cider vinegar Help with Controlling Blood Sugar Levels.
High blood sugar levels can lead to several health complications, including diabetes. Apple cider vinegar has been found to have anti-glycemic properties, which may help to control blood sugar levels.
According to a study, drinking apple cider vinegar before a meal can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce postprandial glucose and insulin levels.
10. Apple cider vinegar may Help Relieve Sunburn.
Sunburn can cause redness, pain, and swelling, leading to skin damage and skin cancer. Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve sunburn.
Mix one apple cider vinegar with two parts of water and apply the solution to the affected area using a clean cloth or cotton ball. This will help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
11. Apple cider vinegar may Help with Weight Management.
Obesity is a growing health concern that can lead to several health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Apple cider vinegar may help with weight management by reducing appetite and promoting fat burning. According to a study, consuming ACV can increase satiety, reduce food intake, and promote weight loss.
12. Apple cider vinegar May Help to Manage Inflammatory Conditions.
Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to manage these conditions.
For centuries, it has been believed that drinking apple cider vinegar can help reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
13. Apple cider vinegar is Loaded with Antifungal Properties.
Fungal infections can cause several health problems, including skin infections and nail fungus. Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties that can help to prevent and manage these infections.
According to a study, apple cider vinegar can effectively inhibit the growth of candida, a fungus that causes oral and genital infections.
14. Apple cider vinegar is Good for Easing the Sting or Itch of Bug Bites.
Bug bites can cause itching, redness, and swelling, leading to infections. Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help to ease the sting or itch of bug bites.
Apply a few drops of apple cider vinegar directly to the affected area, or mix it with water and apply the solution using a clean cloth or cotton ball.
15. Apple cider vinegar may aid in Hair Care.
While there are no scientific backings on how apple cider vinegar can help in health care, some experts believe apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural hair conditioner.
Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid; it helps to balance the scalp’s pH, which can help promote healthy hair growth and reduce dandruff.
Mix equal water and apple cider vinegar, apply to the hair, and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off. This can also help to remove buildup from hair products.
Potential side effects of drinking apple cider vinegar.
While apple cider vinegar is generally safe to consume in moderate amounts, it can cause side effects in some people. These include:
- Digestive issues: Consuming too much apple cider vinegar can cause digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
- Low potassium levels: Consuming large amounts of apple cider vinegar can cause a drop in potassium levels, leading to muscle weakness and cramping.
- Tooth enamel erosion: Drinking undiluted apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and decay.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Q. What is the difference between Apple Cider Vinegar and White Vinegar?
The main difference between apple cider vinegar and white vinegar is the source of the vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is made from apple cider, while white vinegar is made from grains such as corn or wheat.
Apple cider vinegar has a slightly sweeter taste and is often used in cooking, while white vinegar has a more sour taste and is often used for cleaning.
Q. Should apple cider vinegar be refrigerated after opening?
Apple cider vinegar does not need to be refrigerated after opening but should be stored in a cool, dark place. It can be stored in the pantry for up to two years after opening.
Q. How do you know if apple cider vinegar has gone bad?
Apple cider vinegar has a long shelf life but can go bad over time. Signs that apple cider vinegar has gone bad include a cloudy appearance, a sour smell, and a change in taste.
q. Can apple cider vinegar be used as a salad dressing?
Yes. One of the simplest ways to incorporate apple cider vinegar into a daily diet is by using it as salad dressing. In some cases, diluted apple cider vinegar is preferred by individuals with high vulnerability to tooth decay or sensitivity.
q. Does apple cider vinegar help with wrinkles?
Apple cider vinegar has been touted as a natural remedy for many skin issues, including wrinkles.
While there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim, some people believe that the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in apple cider vinegar can help exfoliate and brighten the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
To use apple cider vinegar as a skin treatment, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and apply it to the skin with a cotton ball or spray bottle.
Q. Is organic apple cider vinegar better than non-organic?
Yes. In 2016, a paper published in Food Technology & Biotechnology revealed groundbreaking insights about organic and non-organic apple cider vinegar: their composition of beneficial bacteria varies significantly.
Based on their findings, it was determined that organic counterparts host a higher number of diverse bacterial strains. This leads to the conclusion that further research could potentially reveal better health benefits from consuming organic food over non-organic varieties.
With little to no extra cost, it is certainly a wise decision to opt for organic apple cider vinegar over its non-organic alternative. Also, good quality organic brands contain amino acids and antioxidant properties.
Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar is a versatile and natural health tonic with numerous benefits for the body. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin.
It can also aid in weight loss, regulate blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol. While apple cider vinegar is generally safe for consumption, it should be used in moderation and diluted with water to avoid potential side effects.
Incorporating apple cider vinegar into your daily routine can be a simple and effective way to enhance your overall health and well-being.
Disclaimer
It is important to note that the information provided in this article is only for educational purposes.
Researchers have not thoroughly investigated the chemical composition of apple cider vinegar, and scientific evidence does not support some ancient and traditional medicine claims about APV’s healing qualities.
Therefore, you should not rely on this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult a physician or other healthcare professional.
