Considered as one of the most popular types of vinegar, apple cider vinegar has always been talked about especially by health enthusiasts because of its various benefits. Aside from being a condiment, it is also used as a natural home remedy.
Apple cider vinegar underwent fermentation which makes it a probiotic. It contains fewer calories and sugar compared to pure apple juice and apple cider. Also, it has amounts of vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, copper, antioxidants and amino acids.
Here are some of the health benefits of apple cider vinegar.
1. Regulates blood sugar level
Apple cider vinegar can be helpful in lowering blood sugar levels. In fact, patients with type 2 Diabetes have found it useful in keeping their blood sugar levels at bay. Research shows that ACV aids in insulin sensitivity which means improvement in insulin responses and function for diabetic individuals.
2. Helps in weight loss
Studies show that ACV helps in curbing appetite which results in lesser calorie consumption. The study was conducted to 175 individuals suffering from obesity and those who took at least 1 tablespoon of ACV for 3 months lost over 2 lbs while those who consumed 2 tablespoons lost about 3 to 4 lbs.
3. Improves skin
Because of ACV’s anti-bacterial properties, this type of vinegar may also be used to cure acne and decrease acne scars. It also contains citric acid, lactic acid, acetic acid and succinic acid which help in preventing acne growth and in decreasing possible acne scarring.
4. Promotes normal blood pressure
Patients who suffer from high blood pressure and other heart diseases can benefit from consuming apple cider vinegar because it contains properties that help in regulating blood pressure levels.
5. Home remedy for sunburn
If you are suffering from sunburn, you may want to try using apple cider vinegar because it has been proven to provide relief for a sunburnt and dry skin. All you need to do is mix lavender oil, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar during a warm bath on a tub. Soak in it to soothe your sunburn.
6. Natural deodorant
ACV is known for its anti-bacterial properties which makes it a perfect natural deodorant. Body odor from underarms can sometimes be inevitable so if you want to go for something natural and effective as a deodorant, you may want to try apple cider vinegar by putting a small amount on your fingers and dabbing it on your armpits.
7. Home remedy for warts
Warts are pretty common and most of us will have to suffer from these undesirable bumps at one point in our lives. Popular treatments for warts include cauterizing, cryotherapy, laser therapy, use of topical creams or through surgery.
Some of the mentioned remedies can be painful and expensive and even when the initial treatment was able to remove warts, there’s no guarantee that it won’t recur or spread. Here’s a good news. Apple cider vinegar can be a cheaper and less painful alternative treatment for warts. All you need to do is soak cotton in ACV and dab it in the affected area then leave it with a bandage overnight. You will have to do this procedure for a couple of days to see the result.
8. Natural teeth whitener
ACV can act as a natural teeth whitener. Brush your teeth with a moderate amount and then rinse. However, be careful not to overdo it because it might cause damage to your teeth when done excessively.
9. Eases a sore throat
Apple cider vinegar’s anti-bacterial properties can help ease a sore throat. Gargle a mixture of ACV and warm water. You can do this procedure every hour until the itch and discomfort on your throat decrease.
10. Improves hair health
People with dry and dull hair can benefit from apple cider vinegar as it helps in improving hair health. Rinsing your hair with ACV will prevent it from dryness and will, in fact, make your hair look shiny and healthy. Some medical practitioners also confirm that ACV can treat dandruff since it helps in balancing your scalp’s pH.
Using a spray bottle, make a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water then spray it on your scalp. Allow it to be absorbed by your scalp by leaving it for at least 15 minutes before washing your hair. You can do this once or twice a week.
Apple cider vinegar is very useful. With the details above, you can now take advantage and start enjoying ACV and its health benefits.