Apple cider vinegar also goes by the name acetic acid. You can either consume it directly or apply this to your skin. This liquid is the fermented form of distilled apple cider, and comes cheap with various uses. For instance, this can clear acne, cleanse and exfoliate the skin, balance out sebum, and clear outer skin cells. Further, it contains anti-fungal properties, and can hence get rid of pathogens. However, do remember that it can be harsh due to its acidic nature.

You must be aware that this is a common home remedy. Further, this has been in use for years for both cooking and medical purposes. This is because of the array of benefits, namely concerning cleansing and appearance. Firstly, it is rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial effects. Hence, it sustains long term health by keeping diseases at bay. Secondly, it lowers rates of cholesterol, blood sugars, and eventually diabetes as well. As a result, it can ensure slow and steady weight loss with regular consumption.

Here are some reasons to grab a glass right away.

Nutrient Richness

There are two steps to making this drink. The first step is to expose crushed apples to yeast which results in sugar fermentation. Thus, this eventually converts to alcohol. After that, the addition of bacteria further ferments alcohol and converts it to acetic acid. This is the key active compound of the drink. Further, it gives it a strong odour and flavour. In fact, cider vinegars in general contain between 5-6% of acetic acid. Also, the unfiltered form contains strands of proteins, enzymes, and bacteria. Each of these give it a cloudy appearance.

In addition, the vinegar contains traces of potassium. In fact, it may carry amino acids and antioxidants too.

Inhibits Harmful Bacteria

Vinegar in itself works as a useful cleaner and disinfectant. For instance, you can use this to treat nail fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections. In fact, people have been using it to clean wounds for as long as 2,000 years. Similarly, you can use vinegar for food preservation as well. This is because it prevents the growth and spread of harmful bacteria such as E. Coli. Above all, it is an all-natural method which is unlikely to cause side effects.

Some also claim that vinegar can help get rid of acne as well. However, most of this is anecdotal. Thus, more research in this area can confirm this.

Treats Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a result of high blood sugar levels. This is namely a result of insulin resistance, or the inability to produce it. However, this can help non-diabetic persons as well by keeping blood sugar levels within their optimal range. In this manner, it lowers risks of ageing and chronic diseases. In addition to regular means of managing blood sugar levels, such as regulating refined carb and sugar intake, apple cider vinegar can help as well.

Vinegar in general offers a number of benefits for blood sugar and insulin levels. Firstly, one study shows that it improves insulin sensitivity by 19-34% during a high carb meal. Secondly, another one finds that it can lower blood sugar levels by as much as 31.4% after eating 5o grams of white bread. Thirdly, a Pub Med study among diabetic patients finds that just 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before sleeping can lower blood sugar levels by 4% the next morning. In summery, various studies show that vinegar can improve insulin function and lower blood sugar levels.

However, make sure to not rely on this entirely if you are a diabetic patient. In other words, you cannot replace medical treatments with unproven health products. In addition, be cautious if you already use medicines to lower blood sugar levels. So, make sure to consult your healthcare provider in such a situation.

Enables Weight Loss

Vinegar consumption can lead to a feeling of fulness and thus can cause you to consume lesser calories. In this manner, it can cause weight loss. For instance, one study shows that subjects drinking vinegar alongside a high carb meal consumed 200-275 calories lesser than those who didn’t drink it. Similarly, a study among 175 obese subjects shows that it can lower belly fat and cause weight loss. It specifically finds that just 1 tablespoon (12 ml) and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) caused participants to lose 1.2 kgs and 1.7 kgs respectively.

However, it is important to note that a simple addition or subtraction of foods can rarely lead to weight loss. Nevertheless, apple cider vinegar packs a larger bang for the buck. While one tablespoon may have just 3 calories, it keeps you satiated.

Boosts Skin Health

Apple cider vinegar is an age-old cure for skin dryness and eczema. You may find that alkaline soaps and moisturisers tend to irritate your skin and worsen its condition. In contrast, apple cider vinegar carries a slightly acidic nature that matches your skin pH. Thus, it can not only restore its natural pH but creates a skin barrier too. Similarly, you can use apple cider vinegar as a face wash or toner. This can kill bacteria and prevent spotting. However, some others complain that it causes skin irritation, and need not necessarily improve the barrier.

Above all, make sure to speak to your healthcare provider or doctor before using it. This is especially important if you have damaged skin. Further, be sure to dilute the vinegar first to avoid burns.

Dosage and Uses

Cooking is one of the most common ways of using apple cider vinegar. For instance, you can add it to pastas, salads, or as an ingredient in mayonnaise. Alternatively, you may simply dilute it in a glass of water and drink it like a beverage. Typical dosages can range anywhere from 5-30 ml (1 teaspoon – 2 tablespoons). If you are sensitive to acids or tend to face side effects, you may wish to lower the dose or avoid this entirely.

Takeaways

Apple cider vinegar is an amazing beverage for long-term health. This is because it is rich in nutrients, boosts skin health, and can prevent harmful bacteria activity and high blood sugars. As a result, it ensures steady weight loss too. You can use this in cooking or dilute it in water to have as a beverage.

Check out some Ayurvedic tips for steady and sustainable weight loss here. 

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