The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Ever wondered what the fuss is about when it comes to Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)? I sure did. Over the years when I worked at various gyms and yoga studios, I would often hear clients in the locker room or at the reception exchanging notes about the many ways of consuming ACV. I was so curious that earlier this year, I decided it was time to explore and do some research on ACV. Sit back and enjoy the following three benefits of ACV, which I have personally tried and tested!
Relieves Sore Throat:
Did you know that among the most renowned figures in medicine history, Hippocrates prescribed ACV to treat a variety of illnesses in 400 BC. This also means that ACV has been around a very long time.
In fact, experts say that ACV has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-septic, and antifungal properties. Therefore, it may be effective against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections – Now that’s some good news!
I put this to the test when I recently returned from vacationing in Mexico. When I got off the plane, I felt a slight tingle in my throat. Once home, I reached for my bottle of ACV, and poured two teaspoons of it in warm water, added a hint of honey, and sipped my drink until it was all gone. I instantly felt as though my throat was feeling better, so I repeated this process a couple of times throughout the next day until the soreness was gone. How is this possible? Vinegar creates an acidic environment that prevents most germs from spreading.
Another tip to combat a sore throat: You can gargle every hour with a solution of 1 cup apple cider vinegar for every 1 cup of warm water. Give it a try and see if it works for you.
Cleans Your Produce:
Some research also indicates that you can clean your fruits and veggies using ACV. According to Carol Johnston, PhD, a registered dietitian and professor at the School of Nutrition and Health Promotion at Arizona State University in Phoenix, the best way to clean your fruits and veggies is with diluted ACV. Simply spray your produce with the solution using a spray bottle and rinse everything once more in regular water before serving.
Nature's Expert Tip: ACV can also deodorize stinky feet. Simply spray diluted ACV on your feet, then pat dry and voila!
Bloating Be Gone!
ACV can reduce bloating, so it may help you if you suffer from chronic bloating like I once did. How? According to Raphael Kellman, MD, founder of the Kellman Center for Integrative and Functional Medicine in New York City, vinegar increases stomach acidity and contributes to the digestion and absorption of food. Therefore, to avoid feeling like a puffer fish, try drinking diluted ACV 20 minutes before eating.
The list of benefits for ACV is a long one, as some research even indicates that it may help with weight loss, heart disease, and even as a repellant for pet fleas. Now it’s your turn to become a food detective and explore all the ways that ACV can improve your life!
References (Up to you if you want to add this)
