Apple Cider Vinegar for Health Benefits
Apple cider vinegar has been used for generations as a natural healing and weight loss supplement and it continues to gain popularity as people discover the many apple cider vinegar benefits that can be found in this simple product.
Apple cider vinegar is simply vinegary that is made by fermenting apple cider. During the fermentation process the natural sugars present in the apple cider are broken down by yeast and bacteria, first into alcohol, then into vinegar. ACF contains acetic acid as well as citric, lactic and malic acids. This is good for you if you are following an alkaline way of eating.
Apple cider vinegar has a yellowish-brown color and is frequently sold unpasteurized and unfiltered with a cloudy dark sediment in the bottom which is called the “mother” of vinegar. This mother is comprised mostly of the acetic acid bacteria. This unpasteurized and unfiltered apple cider vinegar can be found in most health food stores as well as through online retailers.
The health benefits of apple cider vinegar are numerous. It is known to be an effective cure for allergies, acne, sinus infections, chronic fatigue, flu, candida, sore throats, acid reflux, dermatitis, gout and even arthritis. Apple cider vinegar has even been shown to help break down fat deposits and is commonly used as a weight loss supplement. There are even reports that daily use of ACV mixed with water can lower high blood pressure in only a couple of weeks.
Hippocrates, often referred to as the Father of Medicine, was known to use ACV for its health properties about 400 B.C. Some say he only had two remedies, apple cider vinegar and honey.
Natural ACV is an effective and natural cure for many ailments which often require the use of antibiotics or other medications which typically come with adverse side effects. It has also been shown to help improve the immune system as well as increase metabolism.
When using apple cider vinegar there are a couple of things that you need to keep in mind. First of all, ACV is acidic; it is important to take it mixed with water and brush your teeth thoroughly to prevent damage. It is also important to note that the apple cider vinegar used for health purposes is the type found in health food stores or online and contains the “mother”. The apple cider vinegar typically found in grocery stores has been treated to have all beneficial properties removed.
