Apple cider vinegar comes from pulverized apples and is a product of fermentation, a process in which yeast and bacteria break down sugar, first into alcohol and then into vinegar. It is a light yellow or brown color, and unfiltered apple cider vinegar often contains a cloudy sediment called "mother of vinegar." Apple cider vinegar is used as a condiment, as well as a health remedy, and for its health benefits.
Nutrients
Apple cider vinegar is rich in essential nutrients that the body needs for healthy metabolism, oxygen transport and all biological reactions. Vitamins in apple cider vinegar include vitamin A, C, E and the B vitamins. It also contains minerals such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium. These minerals are important for heart, muscle, nerve and overall body health.
Insulin Sensitivity
According to the American Diabetes Association, apple cider vinegar helps to increase insulin sensitivity after a high carbohydrate meal in individuals with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. Apple cider vinegar may also help to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in individuals who at risk of developing this disease.
Weight Loss
Apple cider vinegar also helps to lower the glycemic index of foods. This means that after eating a carbohydrate-rich meal, blood glucose doesn't spike quickly. Instead, blood glucose levels are raised steadily, which gives you prolonged energy, leaves you feeling full longer and stops hunger cravings to reduce weight gain. According to medical research conducted by the Public Health Association of Egypt, mice fed apple cider vinegar showed significant weight loss compared to a control group.
Lower Cholesterol
According to a study published by the BMC Gastroenterology Journal, apple cider vinegar contains the soluble fiber pectin that helps to lower cholesterol in the body. This occurs by binding to the cholesterol and preventing it from being absorbed by the body. Apple cider vinegar also contains acetic acid, which helps to boost the metabolism of fats.
Liver Cleanse
The soluble fiber pectin also helps to detoxify the digestive system and liver by removing heavy metal and toxins directly from the intestines. This cleanses the body and reduces the workload of the liver, which filters the blood.
Blood Acidity
Apple cider vinegar is popularly used to restore blood pH in the body. Natural Standard, an alternative health website, recommends taking one to two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar diluted in water as a daily health tonic. Acidity in the body is thought to cause illnesses such as arthritis, gout, infections, headaches and allergic reactions. Apple cider vinegar is acidic, but it is thought to have an alkalizing effect in the body, which helps to decrease illness and disease, although currently, there is no medical research to confirm this.
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