Apple Cider Vinegar, Really a Great Health Tonic?

Different kinds of vinegar are praised for their numerous health benefits since ancient times. And apple cider vinegar, is one of the best vinegar so far from treating acne to help lose weight. The apple cider vinegar is processed by fermenting the crushed apples or the apple juice. The sugar content of the apple is converted to alcohol during the fermentation process, because of the yeast action and other factors. It is acidic, sour tasting liquid and generally pale or ample in colour.

It is utilized since centuries, for adding flavour and as the preservative. But in the past few years, it has gained popularity as a health tonic. This vinegar has potential health benefits due to the presence of prebiotics and high nutritional value.

Nutritional Value of Apple Cider Vinegar:

The vinegar usually has zero fat and protein content. High concentration of potassium is found as compared to sodium. Potassium, phosphorous, calcium, sodium, magnesium, iron and zinc are the minerals found in this vinegar. It has minimal sugar content and provides 21 kcal of energy per 100g.

The various advantages of Apple Cider Vinegar include:

1. Controls hiccups

Hiccups are uncontrollable contractions of the diaphragm. Over-eating and over drinking are the main causes of hiccups. The alkalizing effect of vinegar with water benefits in overcoming heartburn. It restores the acid balance of the stomach and relaxes the diaphragm.  

2. Assists weight loss

The vinegar can control your appetite by increasing the feeling of fullness. This leads to feeding on fewer calories resulting in body weight loss. It also supports the reduction in belly fat of obese people. It is mainly because of the action of acetic acid that increases your metabolism and reduces water retention in the body.

3. Acts as liver tonic

According to Ayurveda, the apple cider vinegar helps in draining bile from the body thereby cleanses your liver. The bile also contains toxin metabolic by-products. Thus, its consumption detoxifies your liver and also hydrates your stool.

4. Lowers cholesterol

Apple cider vinegar is famous as a traditional remedy for weight loss and other related issues. A study has found that intake of diluted apple cider vinegar twice daily results in cholesterol reduction by up to 13%. BBC in collaboration Aston University reported that apple cider vinegar has cholesterol-lowering effects.

5. Cures sore throat and allergic coughing

Consumption of small amounts of apple cider vinegar with warm water helps in treating soar throat. This is because of its antibacterial property. Mucous thinning effects of the vinegar along with honey assists in clearing nasal congestion and allergic coughing.

6. Reduces blood sugar levels

The proper use of apple cider vinegar assists in managing blood sugar levels along with a diabetic diet. Studies have stated that the use of vinegar is favourable in reducing the blood sugar levels. It also aids in improving insulin function, which is one of the vital hormones involved in regulating the blood sugar levels. Therefore, proving fruitful for type 2 diabetic patients as well.

7. Improves skin health

The antibacterial and healing properties of the apple cider vinegar support in the treatment of acne and reduce scars also. It helps in balancing the pH of the skin as well. Its utilisation as a face toner helps in reducing open pores of the ski with time.

8. Increases gut health

The prebiotic content of the apple cider vinegar helps in maintaining a good gut health, i.e., it promotes the good bacteria of the body. It enhances your digestive system and holds other indirect added benefits too. With proper digestion, it helps in absorbing nutrients as well. 

So, one must regularly consume a definite amount of apple cider vinegar along with warm water and honey to take its several advantages for a better healthy body and skin. The pregnant and breastfeeding women along with children should avoid its consumption. Also, undiluted consumption can damage your tooth enamel. Apple cider vinegar works great with keto diet and gives you healthy body

Snigdha

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