Apple cider vinegar, or ACV, has seen a dramatic rise in sales since 2001, according to the Vinegar Institute. At least one reason for the renewed public interest in apple cider vinegar and vinegar in general has been the economic downturn, reports MSNBC, since vinegar has so many household and dietary uses and is a relatively inexpensive product. The increased use of ACV resulted in part as people started buying vinegar and sharing their stories of savings and health benefits.
Definition
Apple cider vinegar is defined as a sour wine, and according to the Food and Drug Administration, "Cider vinegar or Apple vinegar is made from the two-fold fermentation of the juices of apples. Vinegar can be made from other fruits such as peaches and berries with the labels describing starting materials." ACV enthusiasts believe that organic ACV is the best choice since pasteurization can destroy some of the nutrients in ACV.
Weight Loss
Dr. D.C. Jarvis advises mixing 1 or 2 tbsp. of ACV into a glass of water as a beverage to drink prior to every meal. You can add a jigger of honey to the tonic if you find the flavor distasteful. In one diabetes study at Arizona State University, a nutritionist found that her subjects taking 2 tbsp. of vinegar before meals lost an average of 2 lbs. in 4 weeks.
Acid Reflux Benefit
Suzy Cohen of The Best of Times magazine reveals the salubrious effect of ACV on acid reflux in her December 2008 article, "Medical Myths Revealed." She explains that the sphincter responsible for keeping stomach acid out of the esophagus is pH sensitive, and the acid in ACV helps the sphincter function as intended when your body doesn't produce enough acid of its own.
Diabetes Benefit
Several studies have examined the effect of ACV on blood sugar levels. One 2004 study found that ACV can increase the body's sensitivity to insulin after eating, and that the acetic acid in the ACV may mimic the effects of Metformin, a popular diabetes medication. Another study found that taking ACV at bedtime helps keep waking glucose to healthy levels in diabetics who are adequately controlling their diabetes.
Warning
If you are struggling with diabetes or insulin sensitivity or suspect you might be, it is imperative that you see your physician right away. While apple cider vinegar may have a therapeutic effect on health and in alleviating some diabetic symptoms, it is not a cure or intended to be a cure. Additionally, you should consult with your doctor and/or a nutritionist or dietitian before starting any diet.
Member Comments