Raw Apple Cider Vinegar Effects On The Body

Raw apple cider vinegar, or ACV, has many medicinal benefits. Most often it is mixed in a small amount of water and taken prior to meals to enhance digestion, tread gastrointestinal ailments and regulate blood sugar. Apple cider vinegar also can be applied to the skin to treat infections, bee stings acne and plantar warts. ACV is an inexpensive and readily available remedy, but do not confuse it with its distilled, processed cousins on the shelf. Raw vinegar, available at health food stores or in the organic section of many local grocers, has not been pasteurized or distilled to retain its original healing properties.

Weight Loss

Apple cider vinegar is often taken as a weight loss aid. However, according to registered dietitian Katherine Zeratsky of Mayo Clinic, there is no evidence to support the claim that it promotes weight loss. Even natural nutritionist Elizabeth Walling writes that apple cider vinegar does not directly contribute to weight loss, but she advocates its use nonetheless. She states that it prevents blood sugar spikes, which has the ability to influence weight loss in those who are insulin resistant. If taken prior to meals, ACV also has shown to help people achieve satiety earlier, thus reducing the number of calories they eat at one time. So while apple cider vinegar does not directly cause weight loss, it can be a safe component of a healthy weight-loss plan.

Antibacterial Properties

The malic acid present in apple cider vinegar contains antibacterial properties. The physicians at the University of Maryland Medical Center recognize apple cider vinegar's antibacterial properties and recommend it alongside conventional medical care for the treatment of bacterial food poisoning. They recommend ingesting 2 tsps. mixed with warm water several times per day.

Wart Remedy

Apple cider vinegar provides relief for wart sufferers. It contains acetic acid, which has a similar effect on the skin as salicylic acid, which is the main ingredient in most over-the-counter wart treatments. Soak the affected area for 20 minutes. Gently rub a pumice stone over the area or rub vigorously with a dry towel. Protect skin between treatment by covering with petroleum jelly and a bandage soaked in apple cider vinegar. Repeat the treatments daily until the wart is removed.

Effects on Blood Sugar

Dr. Carol Johnston of Arizona State University studied the affects of apple cider vinegar on blood sugar regulations. She concluded that the acetic acid found in ACV prevents the digestion of starch, which prevents those carbohydrates from affecting blood glucose levels.

Precautions

Side effects of ingesting apple cider vinegar are related to the acidic nature of the liquid itself. Dental enamel erosion has been reported, and the sensitive lining of the esophagus and stomach is easily irritated as well. To minimize these risks, apple cider vinegar should be diluted with water whenever it is consumed.