The apple cider vinegar that is rich in minerals is the unfiltered and organic vinegar. There is a long history of its use in medicine dating back to 400 B.C., when the father of medicine, Hippocrates, used it to treat his patients. Although there is not a lot of scientific evidence to prove its effectiveness, it is still considered to be a valuable remedy for illnesses such as diabetes and osteoarthritis.
Lowers Glucose
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which can slow down starch digestion, consequently lowering glucose levels in the bloodstream, according to an article published by the American Diabetes Society in January 2004 called "Vinegar Improves Insulin Sensitivity to a High-Carbohydrate Meal in Subjects With Insulin Resistance or Type 2 Diabetes."
Reduces Bad Cholesterol
The presence of pectin in apple cider vinegar helps reduce bad cholesterol in the body. Some individuals exhibit an allergy to pectin and should therefore avoid apple cider vinegar.
Contains Minerals
Potassium, magnesium and other minerals are present in apple cider vinegar. Potassium controls the water balance in the body and maintains a healthy heart rhythm. Magnesium is a catalyst in enzyme activity, helping digestion and assisting in the uptake of calcium to form healthy bones.
Helps Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is cause by acid crystal buildup in the body, and apple cider vinegar can disperse these buildups by balancing the body's pH, says Dr. Deforrest Clinton Jarvis in his book "Folk Medicine: A Vermont Doctor's Guide to Good Health." There is still no substantial scientific evidence for this claim, but Dr. Jarvis lists successful cases of patients recovering from osteoarthritis under his care with apple cider vinegar.
Antioxidant Activity
Apple cider vinegar contains beta-carotene, which according to the Mayo Clinic possesses antioxidant properties that counteract damage caused by free radicals and that boost your immune system.
Antifungal Properties
The fungus Malassezia furfur, which causes dandruff, is eradicated by the antifungal properties of apple cider vinegar. A solution of 50 percent water and 50 percent apple cider vinegar should be applied to the scalp and left to dry without rinsing until dandruff is gone.
Anti-Inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar work to soothe the effects of sunburned skin when added to a bath. It can also help internal inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract when added to salads or taken diluted with water.
Weight Loss Aid
By helping balance blood sugar levels, apple cider vinegar also assists in weight loss, since insulin will not direct sugar to be stored as fat, says nutritionist Dr. Carol Johnston of the Arizona State University East.
Skin Toner
Apple cider vinegar is astringent, which helps with toning the skin, especially on the face and neck. Avoid getting it in the eyes, as it may cause irritation.
Yeast Infection Remedy
Apple cider vinegar reduces yeast infections in women by adding 2 tbsp. of the vinegar to a douche. Not all women react positively to this remedy, and it should be taken with caution.
References
- Holistic Wellness: Apple Cider Vinegar Weight Loss...Is there any proof?
- American Diabetes Association: Vinegar Improves Insulin Sensitivity
- American Diabetes Association: Vinegar Moderates Waking Glucose Concentrations
- Mayo Clinic: Beta-Carotene
- "Folk Medicine: A Vermont Doctor's Guide to Good Health"; Deforrest Clinton Jarvis, M.D.;1995
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