Apple cider vinegar: the "mother" of all grocery shelf-medicine?
Several studies claim that the miracle that is this pantry staple can cure a string of health problems from obesity, skin rashes, diabetes, and even cancer.
While it is for sure one of the most valuable substances out there that is really cheap and easy to find, this obsession has also led to some exaggerated claims. So here we are again to scrutinize what is the good and what is the hoax when it comes to the benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar.
Its medicinal properties have been used for ages: the Father of Modern Medicine, Hippocrates, used this healing tonic for a multitude of purposes. It has been used since 400 B.C. and is still just as useful as it was today.
So, what are some of the real health benefits of ACV?
It helps in weight loss.
Apple Cider Vinegar aids in digestion because it increases the acidity in the stomach. It also helps propel the digested food to the small intestine. Furthermore, it reduces bloating which can make you look and feel like you’ve really lost weight after all.
However, contrary to other claims, it does not suppress the appetite. It could, but the amount that you need to consume to curb your cravings to a maximum is foul-tasting and nauseatingly intolerable.
It promotes clear skin.
According to a study, when the stomach is not producing enough acid, it impedes the absorption of some vitamins and minerals like B6, folate, calcium, iron, and other nutrients which can affect the quality of one’s skin. Consuming Apple Cider Vinegar can help the body absorb and utilize the nutrients by introducing a little more acid in the stomach.
Topically applying it to an acne, though, can lead you out of the frying pan into the fire. Undoubtedly, the acid in the vinegar can fight off bacteria which is the cause of breakouts. However, it will also aggravate and irritate the lesions and the skin surrounding it.
It moderates sugar crash after meals.
It has been said that consuming ACV before a meal can improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar responses after meals. Vinegar helps in slowing the rush of sugar to your bloodstream, you don't crash quite as hard.
It kills bad breath.
The antibacterial properties of Apple Cider Vinegar can kill the microorganisms in your mouth responsible for bad breath. It could arguably get rid of the plaque on your teeth, too. However, dentists strongly advice against using ACV to whiten teeth. Our mouths do not have enough acid protection and rubbing acid on your teeth on a daily basis could corrode the enamel or protective layer, and leave your teeth vulnerable to decay.
Bottom line:
Remember how the old saying goes? Everything in excess is poison. This still applies when consuming Apple Cider Vinegar. While it is regarded and proven as beneficial, too much of the good stuff can do you more damage than when you did not take it. If you want to soak up on the advantages listed above, please make sure to dilute the vinegar in a 1 teaspoon to 1 glass of water ratio. And remember that if the claims are lofty yet risky, it’s always better to err on the side of caution ;-)
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