April 27, 2024

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (ACV)

apple cider vinager

HEALTH BENEFITS

Vinegar can be either cider vinegar or regular vinegar. Cider vinegar is derived from fruit juices, sugarcane, grapes, figs, and apples, while molasses, honey, maple syrup, and beets are used to produce ordinary vinegar. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a vinegar made from crushed, distilled, and fermented apples. ACV is characterized by a pungent smell and a sour taste. Apple cider vinegar is a product obtained when organic apples undergo the chemical process of fermentation.
Apple juice is fermented twice to acquire vinegar. The addition of yeasts in apple juice converts sugar into alcohol. Then a second fermentation known as acetous fermentation converts alcohol into acetic acid.
Usually, vinegar consists of bioactive compounds such as phytosterols, carotenoids, vitamins E and C. Raw apple cider vinegar contains natural probiotics and antioxidants, along with organic acids like acetic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, and caffeic acid. Probiotics are good bacteria and can boost immunity, while antioxidants remove oxidants that can damage body cells.

The actual health benefits of this wellness elixir are discussed below. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, apple cider vinegar can work wonders.

  • Weight loss
  • ACV speeds up the metabolization process and prevents fat deposition.

  • Detoxification
  • The human body is blessed to eliminate unwanted harmful materials that can be harmful to health. Certain enzymes and good bacteria in ACV can help filter the gut and remove toxins. Also, acetic acid, an ingredient of ACV, binds with toxins, resulting in improved detoxification.

  • Maintains pH levels
  • The ecosystem of the human body constantly works to maintain a balanced pH value (acid-base levels). Ideal pH values hover between 7.35 and 7.45. Consumption of ACV exhibits alkaline behavior in the body by resetting the acid-base ratio towards a more alkaline side.

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also referred to as acid reflux, is quite unpleasant. Usually, unbalanced pH levels cause acid reflux and heartburn. Since ACV is flooded with probiotics and enzymes, therefore, it has the potential to maintain pH levels in the body. Gastroenterologists recommend consuming diluted vinegar before meals to treat heartburn caused by reduced stomach acid.

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s is a disease affecting brain functionality with symptoms like impaired memory and reduced acetylcholine levels. Apple juice can prevent the depletion of acetylcholine and maintains neuronal communications.

  • Reduced blood sugar levels / Antidiabetic effects
  • Apple cider vinegar has been shown to lower blood glucose due to its antihyperglycemic effect. Medical research suggests that consumption of ACV daily can prevent blood sugar spikes in diabetic patients because of its starch blocking ability.

  • Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties
  • Candida, also known as yeast, is the root cause of most skin and vaginal infections. The enzymes present in ACV can easily combat yeast infections like Candida. A miraculous capability of ACV is that it gets rid of harmful bacteria while supporting the good ones at the same time due to its antimicrobial properties.

  • Reduced blood pressure
  • According to a survey performed by WHO, high blood pressure is the cause of about 12.8% of the total deaths. ACV may be a solution to reduce blood pressure. Research has shown that including ACV in diet can lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides to some extent.
     

  • Gut flora balance
  • Most of us don’t realize that our energy levels and mood are directly linked to what we eat and when we eat. Consumption of ACV can increase serotonin production, which can suppress appetite and maintains energy homeostasis. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and is associated with various brain functions. More neurotransmitters can also improve the absorption of nutrients, resulting in increased energy levels, elevated mood, and improved gut flora balance.

    COSMETIC BENEFITS

    This amazing elixir has certain cosmetic benefits, which are discussed briefly

  • TREATMENT FOR DANDRUFF
  • A thin, acidic layer known as the “acid mantle” on the scalp helps protect the scalp from bacteria and other pathogens. The purpose of the acid mantle is to keep hair moisturized, healthy, and shiny. Usage of various harsh and chemical-based products can disturb the acid mantle. Due to its fantastic pH restoring capabilities, ACV can treat some hair problems like dandruff and itchiness.

  • Good for skin
  • Signs of aging usually occur due to free radicals (highly reactive compounds) that can cause skin damage. ACV has incredible antioxidizing properties that can neutralize the effects of free radicals. Hence, the application of diluted ACV may improve skin tone.
    ACV should not be consumed in raw form but after dilution or mixing with honey to reduce the harshness. Direct drinking may damage tooth enamel, causing tooth decay. ACV is commonly used as salad dressing, cooking recipes like ketchup, sauces, pickles, and preservatives. The shelf life of ACV is approximately one year after the seal has been opened. Although apple cider vinegar is a natural compound, and fewer risks are associated with natural remedies. However, possible adverse effects may occur and are discussed below.

  • Low Potassium levels
  • People with low potassium levels (hypokalemia) should avoid taking a high-vinegar diet, as it  can further reduce potassium levels. Hypokalemia can cause muscle weakness and paralysis.

  • Gastrointestinal Issues
  • The reason behind weight loss caused by ACV is its ability to make a person feel fuller for longer by suppressing appetite. However, feelings of nausea have been reported in individuals consuming vinegar in breakfast.

  • Altered insulin levels
  • ACV may interact negatively with some medicines, including diuretic drugs and insulin. Hence, people who take insulin should consume ACV in minimal amounts.

  • Skin burns
  • Direct application of ACV on the skin can cause burns and irritation.

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