Apple cider vinegar has been used as a home remedy for centuries. Research has proven it is highly beneficial to health. It is made by the process of fermenting the sugar in crushed apples which turns into an alcohol solution, then bacteria is added turning the solution into acetic acid, the main ingredient of vinegar. Including apple cider vinegar (ACV) in your diet can provide you with many benefits. Read on to know about the myriad benefits of ACV.
Benefits of apple cider vinegar
The benefits of this healthy drinkrange from reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, weight loss, helps you get rid of Candida, reduces heartburn and helps improve your overall health.Apple cider vinegar benefits are:
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Can help reduce weight
Exercise and a healthy diet are imperative to lose weight. Drinking apple cider vinegar can boost your metabolism, and helps to suppress appetite, thus contributing to weight loss. It can help in preventing water retention too.
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Helps balance blood sugar
Many studies have found a link between apple cider vinegar and blood sugar. According to one study, drinking apple cider vinegar mixed with water before eating a meal high in carbohydrates resulted in lower blood glucose levels later. Another study conducted on people with Type 2 diabetes found that drinking 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar at bedtime led to lower blood sugar levels in the morning.
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May help in lowering cholesterol levels
Though more research is necessary, ACV was found to reduce cholesterol in rats. A study conducted in Japan found that the participants had lowered cholesterol levels after dinking half an ounce every day. An observational study from Harvard found that women who had vinegar as salad dressing had reduced risk of heart disease.
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Helps reduce indigestion
Apple cider vinegar before meals can help to digest your food better. A home remedy for indigestion using apple cider vinegar: mix 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and I teaspoon of water and add this to 1 glass of water (warm) and drink this half an hour before a meal.
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Helps get rid of cold
The potassium in apple cider vinegar thins the mucus and the acetic acid helps to prevent further germ growth, which means you may get better from that pesky cold sooner. Drink a glass of water with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to drain out the mucus.
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Can help in killing bacteria
The acetic acid in ACV can help to kill bacteria. It has traditionally been used for ear infections, lice, nail fungus and disinfecting and cleaning wounds. It acts as a preservative and prevents spoiling of food.
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Can help in getting rid of Candida
Candidas are yeasts which cause thrush in humans. Apple cider vinegar being rich in enzymes can help in getting rid of Candida. Yeast infections, fatigue, sugar cravings and poor memory are also caused by Candida.
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Apple cider vinegar can help in maintaining a healthy pH level
A balanced pH level can help in preventing many diseases. Apple cider vinegar being alkaline in nature helps to reduce and balance the acid levels in your body, thus making you feel energetic throughout the day.
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Helps in detoxing the liver
ACV has been found to aid in detoxification of the body. Studies have shown that the cardiovascular system is stimulated by ACV which helps to detoxify the liver.
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ACV is beneficial for hair
Apple cider vinegar helps to reduce the residue on your scalp from hair products. ACV users contend that it adds shine and detangles hair, making it smooth. Fill a spray bottle with half apple cider vinegar and half with water. After shampooing, spray this on your hair and leave. Doing this twice a week will surprise you with the results.
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Reduces acne and revitalizes your skin
Though the use of apple cider vinegar in controlling acne is mostly anecdotal, but the acetic acid content may help in reducing oil and restoring the pH balance of your skin. Using an extremely diluted form of apple cider vinegar on the face can help in reducing blemishes due to acne. It also helps to soften skin.
The benefits of apple cider vinegar are many, whether you drink it or apply it wherever required. Raw organic apple cider vinegar which is not filtered will give the best results.Including it in your diet ensures amazing health benefits.