Despite it’s recent surge in popularity, the benefits of apple cider vinegar have been well known for centuries. Here are a few reasons why we should include apple cider vinegar into our diets.
Reduce Bloating
Vinegar increases the acidity in the stomach. This can help with the digestion of food therefore making its journey to the small intestine a bit easier. Slow digestion can cause acid reflux, which is a burning sensation when food backs up into your esophagus, causing feelings of fullness. Consuming vinegar can help move things along, try putting one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drinking it 15 minutes before meals.
Regulate Blood Sugar
Acetic acid has been proven to slow down the digestion of simple carbohydrates, thus regulating blood sugar levels. Apple cider vinegar is rich in acetic acid, so having a tablespoon before meals can help to avoid the short highs and the long lows of a high carb diet.
High Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that the nitric acid found in apple cider vinegar, can aid in lowering high blood pressure. This is because high nitric acid production helps to relax blood vessels and can have overall good benefits for your cardiovascular system. This, over time, can naturally result in the lowering of high blood pressure.
Detoxification
Drinking diluted, raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar is believed to help cleanse and detoxify your liver. One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a large glass of water before meals is the daily-recommended amount for detoxification. Though some methods may suggest more, it’s best to work your way up.
Weight Loss
When you have apple cider vinegar before a meal, as well as aiding in digestion, it will help to reduce hunger levels, which is beneficial for losing weight. While raw apple cider vinegar may aid in weight loss, it’s not the only solution. Think of it as one part of your much larger body fat reduction plan.