Information on Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Information on Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Photo Credit red apples image by Tomo Jesenicnik from Fotolia.com

Organic apple cider vinegar is produced by fermenting organic apples in a wooden barrel. The fermentation process involves using microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, to convert the natural sugars in the apples into acetic acid, which is the main ingredient in all types of vinegar. Organic apple cider vinegar is highly regarded in the world of complementary medicine and used for a number of different ailments.

Organic Vs. Nonorganic

The organic forms of apple cider vinegar differ significantly from the nonorganic forms of the vinegar. Organic apple cider vinegar is vinegar in its natural form. The vinegar is generally dark amber in color and cloudy in appearance. This cloudiness is caused by a substance called the mother of vinegar. It is in this mother of vinegar that all of the vitamins, minerals and enzymes in apple cider vinegar are located. Nonorganic apple cider vinegar generally goes through processing and pasteurizing that removes this mother of vinegar, taking vitamins, minerals and enzymes with it.

Proposed Benefits

Organic apple cider vinegar contains a wide variety of minerals and vitamins, including iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, chloride, sodium, sulfur, copper, silicon, fluoride and vitamins C, E and A. In addition to the vitamins and minerals it provides, proponents of organic apple cider vinegar claim that the properties in this type of vinegar can help reduce cholesterol, prevent and treat heartburn, aid in weight loss and treat acne. Organic apple cider vinegar is also thought to contain natural antibacterial agents that help prevent infections and ward off diseases. Supporters of the use of organic apple cider vinegar also claim that it can help prevent osteoporosis, memory loss and certain types of cancer.

Suggestions for Consumption

Although it is made from apples, organic apple cider vinegar is far from sweet. Like other vinegars, organic apple cider vinegar has a strong, sour taste that is not easily handled by most. If you wish to take organic apple cider vinegar, but cannot get past its taste, there are several things you can do. Mixing the vinegar with water can help dilute its potency, while mixing it with honey can sweeten it and help it go down more easily. You can also use apple cider vinegar as a salad dressing or add it to homemade soups.

Considerations

Organic apple cider vinegar should not be used as a substitute for proper medical care. If you wish to take apple cider vinegar to help with a chronic medical condition, you should consult your doctor to discuss any risks or possible complications.

References

Article reviewed by Mike Myers Last updated on: Mar 28, 2011

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