Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries for its various health benefits. It is a natural remedy that has gained popularity for its ability to help regulate blood sugar, reduce LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol, possess anti-bacterial properties, aid in weight loss, and improve digestion.
Additionally, apple cider vinegar is a popular ingredient in haircare and skincare products due to its ability to prevent acne, remove dandruff, treat and prevent sun damage, and tame hair cuticles. In this article, we will explore the different ways in which consuming apple cider vinegar and incorporating it into your beauty routine can benefit your health and well-being. However, it is important to note that apple cider vinegar should be consumed in moderation and diluted with water to avoid negative side effects.
Health benefits of consuming apple cider vinegar
Helps regulate blood sugar- Several studies conducted on the effects of consuming apple cider vinegar indicate that drinking apple cider vinegar could lower our blood sugar levels after meals. Another study indicates that vinegar may improve insulin sensitivity during a high-carb meal. Some studies have also indicated that apple cider vinegar can improve insulin function and lower blood sugar levels after meals. It is recommended to talk to your doctor about the effects of apple cider vinegar while currently taking blood-sugar-lowering medications.
Helps reduce LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol- Cholesterol is a wax-like substance naturally found in blood to help make hormones, absorb vitamin D, and even digest food. However, ‘bad’ cholesterol also known as low-density lipoprotein can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of high blood pressure. An eight-week study was conducted on the effects of consuming apple cider vinegar on 19 patients with high cholesterol. The study indicated an overall reduction in total cholesterols, triglycerides, and LDL. However, further studies need to be conducted to prove the effects.
Has anti-bacterial properties- Apple cider vinegar can help remove pathogens. This is because apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which can kill harmful bacteria or prevent them from multiplying. Therefore, in many cultures apple cider vinegar is used to preserve your food. In other cultures, people used apple cider vinegar for cleaning and disinfecting wounds and treating nail fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections.
Helps lose weight- There are several studies conducted on whether drinking apple cider vinegar daily helps reduces weight. These studies indicated that drinking apple cider vinegar increases our feeling of fullness, which results in less calorie intake. It also boosts our metabolism by keeping our gut microbiome healthy and by reducing belly fat storage. Apple cider vinegar should not be consumed straight as it can irritate the throat. Therefore, drink apple cider vinegar by diluting it with water.
Helps aid digestion- Drinking apple cider vinegar helps get rid of heartburn, reduces bloating, and improves digestion overall. It is also very nutritious as it is full of antioxidants and amino acids.
You can reap the health benefits of apple cider vinegar by incorporating it into salad dressings and marinades. 2 to 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar can be added to a glass of fruit juice. The easiest way of increasing your consumption of apple cider vinegar is by mixing it into a glass of warm water and drinking it every morning. You should not drink undiluted apple cider vinegar as it can irritate the throat and esophagus. It can also cause acidity and nausea when it is consumed undiluted.
Health benefits of apple cider vinegar on hair and skin
Apple cider vinegar is a popular haircare and skincare ingredient. It can be mixed with other ingredients to create restorative and beneficial masks.
Prevents acne- Apple cider vinegar is used to cleanse and heal the skin by restoring the natural pH levels of the skin. Use a cotton ball to apply diluted apple cider vinegar on the skin. Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Removes dandruff- Apple cider vinegar has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It balances the pH level of the scalp and treats scalp infections, dryness, itchiness, and dandruff caused by scalp imbalance.
Treats and prevents sun damage- Applying diluted apple cider vinegar on the face can help soothe the skin and can reduce inflammation and burn symptoms.
Tames hair cuticles- Apple cider vinegar masks make hair less frizzy, tame rough cuticles, and fight split ends.
