If you ever had a chance to meet a health-conscious individual, there is a very high possibility of finding Apple Cider Vinegar in their kitchen shelf. It’s a natural medicine which not just promotes weight loss but also helps in bringing down the blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Additionally, It is also known to have amazing effects on the scalp and on the skin and reduces inflammation.
What makes Apple Cider Vinegar Healthy?
Well let me state the obvious first, It is known to contain an ample amount of acetic acid. Apart from that its made from Apple Juice/alcohol to which Yeast is added. The good bacteria, acetobacter churns the sugars into acetic acid while keeping itself alive which acts as a probiotic when consumed. Last but definitely not the least, since it is fruit-based alcohol it contains Vitamin B and polyphenols which help in better-looking skin.
What else can Apple Cider Vinegar be used for?
Since ACV is a product of fermentation its often used to store food items that are at the risk of quick replenishment. Apart from that it used while cooking or used by surgeons and doctors during medical procedures as an antiseptic agent. It is also used by chefs across the globe as an ingredient while cooking and baking delicacies
The 5 Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar you didn’t know of
- Suppresses Anxiety and Stress
Apple Cider Vinegar is known to contain polyphenols and ample amounts of acetic acids. These components help in burning fats in the arteries and promote a better flow of blood across the body and clean the toxins from the bloodstream. This helps is bringing down the high blood pressure which thus helps in battling anxiety and panic attacks among individuals suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
- Weight loss
According to a recent study it was seen that people consuming Apple Cider Vinegar along with low-calorie diet were seen to lose 40% weight as compared to individuals just following the diet alone over a period of 3 months. The acetic acid present in the ACV helps in burning down the excessive fat in the body and also gets rid of stubborn belly fat.
Also Read: GM Diet Plan: Losing Weight through Indian Vegetarian Diet in 7 days
- Antibacterial for food
Apple cider vinegar is often added as a flavoring ingredient in salads, but one thing to know is, it not just adds flavor but also has the capability of killing bacteria and other microbes casing infections such as E. Coli, Salmonella and other Staph infections. While on the other hand it can also be used as a storing agent and keeps food from getting replenished faster.
- Better Digestion
ACV is also known to have probiotic bacteria acetobacter, which helps in better digestion of food and promotes great bowel movement making it a blessing in disguise for individuals suffering from constipation. While the acetic acid in It can get rid of E. faecalis which is known to cause serious gut infections.
- Helps fighting diabetes and sugar
It is known to increase the body’s insulin sensitivity among individuals consuming high carbohydrates and sugar diet. According to some recent studies done over a period of 13 weeks have shown that regular consumption of ACV has brought down the blood sugar levels by 35%. Also, 2 tablespoons of ACV after dinner can bring down blood sugar the next morning by 4%.
Cons of Apple Cider Vinegar
As mentioned above ACV is abundant in acetic acid, while it’s advantageous, too much acidic intake in the body can lead to some serious health concerns.
- Potassium Risk
Consuming too much Apple cider vinegar can cause hypokalemia, also known as potassium deficiency. Low potassium levels in the body are often linked to paralysis and muscle weakness. This can also affect the heart as the heart is also a muscle and can affect its efficiency.
- Enamel decay
Since Apple cider vinegar is acidic in nature it can erode away the tooth enamel easily just like any other acidic food. It may not be initially noticed as the tooth erosion gets deeper the individual may suffer from tooth pain and/or the teeth may become more sensitive to cold and hot foods.
- Gastric acidity
While apple cider vinegar can help in combating the stubborn belly fat, the acetic acid can cause serious acidic reflux issues if consumed undiluted. This can cause indigestion nausea or worse stomach ulcers.
- Fat burning
Though apple cider vinegar helps in burning the excess fat in the body, that doesn’t mean that you should stop hitting the gym or working out. The process is slow and just consuming ACV undiluted can make the muscles weaker.
What’s the right way to consume Apple cider Vinegar?
There is no doubt that apple cider vinegar has marvelous effects on the body but consuming more can also cause serious issues as mentioned above.
- 2 tablespoons of ACV are usually recommended every day with one cup of warm water.
- Add honey to the warm water and ACV solution. This brings down the concentration and helps the bowel movement as well.
- Avoid sipping Apple Cider Vinegar directly with your teeth. This affects their sensitivity and can erode the enamel.
