Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good for health?
Apple cider vinegar was a natural home remedy for a long time. There are numerous benefits of apple cider vinegar. It is used to treat a range of conditions from sore throat to twisted veins. It is produced during the fermentation of apple cider. During the process, the sugar in an apple is fermented by yeast. After the fermentation process, it is put into alcohol, and finally into vinegar. The principal ingredient in apple cider vinegar is acetic acid. It also holds other substances such as citric acids, malic acids, lactic acids, and bacteria.
What’s in it?
Apple cider vinegar is mostly apple juice which is fermented by adding yeast. Then the bacteria in the fermentation process turns the juice into acetic acid. This is one of the prime reasons why vinegar has a sour taste and strong smell.
How is it used?
Apple cider vinegar has numerous uses like salad dressing, cooking, and as a preservative. It contains a high level of acid and drinking it straight is not recommended. Many people dilute the vinegar with water or tea before applying directly to their skin.
The benefits of apple cider vinegar
Controls blood sugar level
It assists in controlling the blood sugar level of your body. The consumption of this vinegar decreases blood sugar levels by an average of 31%. Furthermore, it increases insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for carrying sugar from the blood to the tissue. A study showed that vinegar ingestion significantly improves insulin sensitivity up to 34% in those with type 2 diabetes.
To keep blood sugar levels stable, dilute one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in eight ounces of water and consume it before a meal.
Weight loss
Consuming apple cider vinegar before or with a meal may help you cut down unwanted body fat. There are many types of research out there confirming the benefits of vinegar in weight loss. A Japanese study showed that daily intake of apple cider vinegar over 12 weeks resulted in nearly 4 pounds of weight loss. Body mass index, triglycerides, waist circumference, and visceral fat, were also reduced.
Some people tend to consume more than the average amount of apple cider vinegar to get a quicker result. However, excessive use of vinegar can be harmful to the body.
Lower cholesterol
Currently, the most common cause of premature death is heart disease. A study showed that apple cider vinegar could lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and prevent your heart from several other conditions. It also reduces blood pressure, which is a significant factor for heart disease and kidney problems.
Get rid of Dandruff
Some people apply apple cider vinegar and water solution onto the scalp to get rid of dandruff, itchiness, and irritation. Vinegar’s acetic acid makes it harder for the yeast to grow.
The solution of vinegar and water is left on the scalp for 15 minutes after applying and then rinsed with normal water. Using it once or twice a week can help prevent dandruff.
Improves skin Health
Apple cider vinegar not only helps your body internally but has also been shown to treat acne, wrinkles, and scarring. Vinegar is generally recognized for its anti-bacterial properties and has proved to be effective against bacteria that contribute to developing acne.
Reduce blood pressure
Apple cider vinegar helps control your blood pressure levels and keeps your heart healthy and active. It effectively blocks the action of a particular enzyme that raises blood pressure.
The side-effects of apple cider vinegar
- Consuming too much vinegar or other acidic foods can weaken tooth enamel and can further lead to tooth decay.
- Apple cider vinegar can help lower potassium levels in your body, resulting in muscle weakness and paralysis.
- Vinegar slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach, which can cause indigestion and gastric problems.
- It can cause severe throat burn if not diluted with water before consumption.
- As it is acidic in nature, it may cause skin burns when applied to the skin.
Bottom line
Apple cider vinegar has several health benefits if used with proper precautions. It seems to be safe as long as you don’t take excessive amounts. It is not a “cure-all” like some people believes, but it does have some essential health benefits. Do consider consulting with your health care provider before using it.
References
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/apple-cider-vinegar-side-effects
https://www.webmd.com/diet/apple-cider-vinegar-and-your-health
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324184.php
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-proven-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar
