Honey and apple cider vinegar, or ACV, are common folk remedies used to improve digestion and increase energy levels, but they can also be combined into a complementary duo. Some people find that the taste of ACV is too sour, so adding honey not only balances the taste, but also adds to the medicinal value. Both honey and ACV contain nutrients that directly provide you with energy, but energy is also derived secondarily by improved digestion. Ask your doctor if you have any contraindications before trying honey and ACV.
Energy From Honey
Honey is an excellent source of easily digestible glucose, which is a simple sugar that your body uses for energy. Carbohydrates, fats and protein can all be broken down into glucose within your digestive system, but it takes more work and energy compared with eating honey. Most raw honey also contains some amino acids, digestive enzymes and B-vitamins, which are needed to stimulate metabolism, according to the "Textbook of Nutritional Medicine."
Other Benefits of Honey
Honey displays antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help eliminate damaging free-radicals and pathogenic microorganisms from your digestive tract, as noted by Tonia Reinhard, author of "Superfoods: The Healthiest Foods on the Planet." As such, eating honey can relieve stomach discomfort and might discourage E. coli bacteria growth, which has been linked to stomach ulcers. Dark-colored honey usually displays stronger antioxidant abilities than lighter types.
Energy from ACV
ACV is made from filtered apple cider. As such, it contains many nutrients, especially vitamins C and B6, according to the "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine." Vitamin B6 is essential for metabolism, energy production and nerve conducting. ACV also contains polyphenols, which help balance blood glucose levels, prevent large secretions of insulin and control hunger.
ACV and Digestion
Poor digestion affects energy levels because food is not broken down sufficiently to release all of its nutrients. Poor digestion is often the result of not enough acidity in your stomach, which can also cause indigestion, heartburn and bloating. Supplementing with ACV might create more acidity in your stomach and promote better digestion, which would provide you with more energy, according to "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism" by Sareen Gropper. ACV also stimulates the friendly bacteria in your gut, which enhances the production of vitamins B-12 and K.
Recommendations
A common recipe is mixing a tablespoon of ACV and a tablespoon of raw or organic honey in an 8 oz. glass of water, which can be warm or chilled, and consuming it slowly once or twice daily just prior to meals. Do not use hot water because it will reduce the aroma, taste and nutrient content of the honey. It won't affect the glucose content, though. If you have chronically low energy, consult your primary care physician.
References
- "Textbook of Nutritional Medicine"; "Melvyn Werbach et al.; 1999
- "Superfoods: The Healthiest Foods on the Planet"; Tonia Reinhard; 2010
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; M. Murray et al.; 2008
- "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism"; Sareen Gropper et al.; 2009
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