Apple cider vinegar (ACV) appears more miraculous the more research is done on it. Its applications seem endless, ranging from disinfecting to accelerating wound healing.
For thousands of years, apple cider vinegar, or ACV, has been used to promote human health. Apple cider vinegar consumption is even becoming more and more of a health fad.
Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Diabetes
A 1995 study demonstrated that consuming vinegar with food—in this case, salad dressing—significantly reduced the body's glycemic reaction to other foods, including bread.This conclusion was supported by another study, which also demonstrated a delay in the insulin response and an increase in satiety following a meal that included bread and vinegar. (Remember that weight loss is affected by this as well.)
Researchers looked into the effects of taking apple cider vinegar before bed to see how it would affect people with type 2 diabetes's blood glucose levels in the morning, based on these and other studies.
Other Ways to Use ACV
Organic, raw, unfiltered ACV is a mild acid. When ingested, it triggers metabolic functions that regulate the body’s pH balance to make it more alkaline.
The optimal pH balance for the human body is slightly alkaline; too acidic or too alkaline and we become an open door to disease and infection. Topically, ACV naturally kills bacteria on contact, so drinking ACV can greatly improve immunity.
1. Sore Throat
Its antibacterial nature makes ACV a potent remedy for a sore throat. Combined with ginger and honey, you get the benefits of powerful anti-inflammatories. Cayenne pepper, on the other hand, contains capsaicin, an anti-inflammatory anesthetic.
Mix together all ingredients and drink in sips:
- 1 tablespoon ACV
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
- ¼ teaspoons ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoons cayenne pepper
2. Cancer
Vinegars of different varieties have shown anti-tumor activity in cancers throughout the body. While not fully understood, acetic acid retards cancer cell growth and proliferation, possibly thanks to its anti-inflammatory capacities.
In addition, ACV is antioxidant-rich, reducing oxidative stress in the body—a precursor to cancer.
3. Detox
What does it mean to detoxify?
Our bodies are engaged in a never-ending process to turn food into fuel and nourishment, and purge waste. Toxins absorbed through food, personal care products, and the environment make this task increasingly formidable.
Vitamins, minerals, and enzymes in ACV nourish the body while its acids support liver function and bind to toxins, easing their elimination. In addition, ACV loosens mucus and stimulates the lymphatic system to expel pathogens and speed healing.
4. Weight Management and Cholesterol
ACV’s acetic acid inhibits the storage of body fat and stimulates genes designed to regulate liver fats by acting on the metabolism of certain proteins. ACV, therefore, reduces body weight and body mass index.
5. Digestion
Because ACV is fermented, it is a natural probiotic. Probiotics are the critical healthy bacteria that live in our digestive systems. In turn, the maintenance of proper probiotic levels is very important towards overall health, as the gut influences every part of our bodies—including the chemistry of our brains.
A daily dose of ACV supports digestion and immune system function. Simply mix 2 teaspoons of ACV to a cup of warm water and drink. Add raw honey to taste, if you like.
6. Hiccup Remedy
It’s theorized that the acetic acid in ACV stimulates the muscles of the throat, stopping the spasms of hiccups.
Mix a teaspoon of ACV with a little water and drink. For stubborn hiccups, hold your breath as long as you can, drink up, and exhale.
7. Heal Bruises
ACV promotes circulation and helps bruises to heal with anti-inflammatories and antioxidants to nourish the damaged tissues.
To use, mix ½ teaspoon of salt with ½ cup apple cider vinegar and warm gently on the stove. Keep the temperature so that’s it’s warm but not hot. Apply as a compress to the affected area for as long as you can, up to several hours (think overnight). Apply the remedy as necessary until bruise disappears.
With all the ways apple cider vinegar can help us in our daily lives, it should be a staple in our refrigerators. Drinking apple cider vinegar is an easy habit to take up and can make a world of a difference, so don’t be afraid to try it!
