Apple cider vinegar has been known from ancient days to possess powerful properties for health and wellbeing. It is used commonly for so many health benefits, to the point of being considered an “elixir”. Even though there might be some claims not supported yet, there is research that shows some of evidence of health improvement. I am going to focus specifically on the proven benefits of using apple cider vinegar.

What’s apple cider vinegar?

This liquid (known as ACV) is made basically of apple juice, fermented by a yeast. Apple cider vinegar has great cleansing properties, due to the amount of minerals, vitamins and enzymes it contains. Apple cider vinegar is very acidic, so the advice is to avoid drinking it directly. You should only consume small amounts, diluted in water. Otherwise, this could lead to some health issues. To take the most advantage of it, you should follow the advice later on.

• Apple cider vinegar for cleansing

Because of apple cider vinegar antimicrobial properties, experts recommend it as a natural “body cleanser”. This vinegar helps the body to remove toxic waste more efficiently before it accumulates. It prevents damage to the cells, so it is great for cleaning and detoxifying in general.

• Powerful for digestion

Apple cider vinegar is great “gut friendly”. It helps in digestion and improves bowel movement. The main benefit you’ll have in this area is less bloating. Also, it will help with constipation and other digestive issues.  You should notice a difference in how your gut feels.

The way you consume it is by diluting a tablespoon of vinegar in one glass of water, better before meals. ACV works well as salad dressing. Because of the strong smell, some people prefer to add some honey. You can also substitute by stevia. Another great thing is relieving the symptoms of heartburn. Some theories say that heartburn occurs due to low bowel movement, so vinegar helps to reverse this condition.

• Improving blood circulation

Apple cider vinegar also helps to improve blood circulation. Vinegar contains enzymes that purify the liver, helping to break down bad cholesterol. Therefore, it avoids cholesterol from blocking your arteries.

Researchers also relate apple cider vinegar with leveling the blood sugar. Acetic acid blocks the absorption of starch.There are studies that indicate that acetic acid from apple cider vinegar can help lower blood sugar in Type 2 Diabetes patients. However, if you are diabetic you should consider first checking with your doctor before altering anything in your diet.

• Natural aid for weight loss and fat burn

There are also some studies that show some relationship between consuming apple cider vinegar and burning fat. How does this happen? Simply due to the enzymes in it.These actually slow down the absorption of fats from the gut and breaks down the fat already circulating in your blood.

In other words, weight loss and fat burn can be achieved because apple cider speeds up metabolism. Well, that’s good news if you are looking for alternative ways to boost your body fat burning system. Now, this doesn’t mean that it is a miracle remedy. Remember that the only true way to lose weight effectively is by learning how to balance your meals.

• Apple cider vinegar for hair

Apple cider is also very useful for hair. Experts say that it prevents and treats dandruff. and balances scalp pH, especially in natural kinky hair. In terms of the pH, the vinegar helps to seal cuticles,, making the hair healthier and more manageable. This, as a result, will make the hair more moisturized.

ACV also prevents fungal and bacterial growth to keep the hair and scalp healthy. Apart from dandruff, ACV helps to avoid hair loss, which is often caused by scalp bacteria. And because your scalp is cleaner, it will also stimulate hair growth. This happens by increasing blood circulation to the follicles. It is great to exfoliate your scalp, removing dead skin and product buildup that blocks the pores.

So, how do you use ACV for hair health?

The way we recommend using it is by doing an “ACV rinse”. You can do this after shampooing your hair.

1. Dilute the raw vinegar (1 tbsp ACV in 3 tbsps water).
2. Massage scalp to stimulate blood circulation and to help with exfoliation.
3. Let the mixture sit in hair for about 5 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly with water.

Finally,

As discussed previously, these are just additional benefits you can get the most of when looking for alternatives to boost your health. The most important part is that you have a balanced diet and active lifestyle. There are no magical remedies that will replace a healthy eating lifestyle. However, it is good to know that there are some extra good properties in certain foods like ACV. You may also refer to the superfoods article in which I explain some of their powerful effects in our health!