Apple cider vinegar- the benefits and uses
Apple cider vinegar has been consumed for centuries and it's many benefits are well-known for those who are health-conscious. Since I have seen the benefits to health on myself I would like to share with you why you might want to incorporate it into your daily routine if you are not consuming it already. For me apple cider vinegar is like soda- it has truly many usages.
How is apple cider vinegar made?
Apple cider vinegar is made of apple cider which has undergone a fermentation process (by bacteria and yeast) to form probiotics and enzymes. In the first fermentation process the sugars in apple cider are turned into alcohol and in the second fermentation process alcohol is turned into acetic acid.
How to consume apple cider vinegar internally?
You only need 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per day to reap the benefits. I have had this as a daily routine for couple of years where every morning when I wake up, I dilute 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a big glass of water, plus I add in there a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of Himalayan salt to replenish the minerals loss during the night. I drink this 15 minutes to 30 minutes before my breakfast.
If you are suffering from acid reflux, drink 1 table spoon mixed in a glass of still water before a meal.
What are the health benefits of the apple cider vinegar?
Boosts gut health due to its healthy dose of beneficial bacteria
Detoxifies liver
Purifies blood
Reduces blood pressure
Cleans lymph nodes
Boosts immunity
Lowers cholesterol
Balances body's pH as it has alkalising effect on the body
Helps to maintain normal blood sugar levels and increases insulin sensitivity
Enhances weight loss together with healthy diet and active lifestyle, as it's active ingredient acetic acid reduces your hunger hormone
Helps with acid reflux as it introduces more acid into the digestive tract to prevent acid back-flow
Improves skin health-treats acne and also scars from acne due to its antibacterial properties
Fights fungus
Soothes sunburns together with coconut oil and lavender essential oil
Helps to find cold, sore throat and cough (you can mix it with a little bit of raw honey)- make sure to mix with water when gurgling
Helps with seasonal allergies as it promotes immunity and lymphatic drainage
Treats warts when applied daily on the wart and then covering with a bandage
Enhances blood circulation when applied on varicose veins
Kills bugs and fleas- mix equal part of water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle and spray on your pet fur.
Use as a natural deodorant by applying a drop or two under your armpits
Keeps hair shiny and dandruff free when rinsing after washing and massaging into scalp
Promotes oral hygiene- mix with water and rinse your mouth
How else can you use apple cider vinegar?
You can mix it into home-made salad dressings and marinades
You can also use it as a household cleaner and disinfectant
You can use it as a weed killer in your yard
What to look out for when purchasing apple cider vinegar?
When you purchase apple cider vinegar make sure you look for organic, raw (unprocessed and unheated) and unfiltered. The liquid should look murky as it should contain the 'mother' so you get the full benefits.
Side effects of apple cider vinegar
Though apple cider vinegar is healthy you need to be mindful when consuming it. Drinking it daily in large amounts is definitely not recommended. But you know this- too much of a good thing is never good. Always dilute apple cider vinegar in water when drinking it. Some of the most common side effects of apple cider vinegar include:
Erosion of tooth enamel
Decreased level of potassium (regulates fluid balance, nerve signals and muscle contractions in the body, important for bones)
If you take any blood sugar medications, check with your health care provider before consuming apple cider vinegar
Always pair apple cider vinegar with a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle.