Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits and Uses

Have you ever wondered about the different types of vinegar that exist? You probably see it every day in your kitchen. But what about Apple Cider Vinegar or ACV? Let’s dive into the details of this amazing and holistic ingredient. 

What is apple cider vinegar? 

ACV is made from crushed, fermented apples, yeast, and sugar. It's used in salad dressings, pickles, marinades, and home remedies for issues like weight loss and digestion. The process involves fermenting apple juice, where yeast converts sugars into alcohol, and natural bacteria turn the alcohol into acetic acid, giving vinegar its taste and smell. High-quality ACV may include the "mother," a factor indicating its quality. 

What is the “mother” in apple cider vinegar? 

When you buy ACV, you’ll notice that some bottles are clear while others are cloudy. This murky sediment is called “the mother”, made up of bacteria and yeast. Many believe this “mother” provides numerous health benefits. 

Is apple cider vinegar healthy? 

ACV is an excellent source of many micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants. The more antioxidants remain in the liquid, the darker the vinegar is. ACV is also rich in acetic acid, which gives it a high acidity, and presumably some of its health benefits. Many people prefer taking apple cider vinegar with the mother since they believe it's the mother that provides all the health benefits. 

Health benefits of apple cider vinegar 

There are many health benefits of ACV. People have used it for many decades for cooking and medicinal purposes. 

Highly nutritious “mother”

Unfiltered, organic apple cider vinegar contains a murky, cloudy layer called the “mother”. This layer is made up of strands of proteins, enzymes, and good bacteria, believed to be the reason for the ACV’s health benefits. 

Anti-bacterial

Vinegar is highly acidic due to its acetic acid content, which helps kill pathogens and bacteria. Due to this acidic nature, vinegar is used as a natural preservative along with a cleaning and disinfecting agent. Studies have shown that ACV prevents bacteria from growing in and spoiling food. 

Anti-diabetic 

Diabetes is caused by high blood glucose caused by insulin resistance or the inability to produce insulin. ACV is suggested to to have beneficial effects on glycemic index in individuals with diabetes and dyslipidemia. However, people on blood-sugar-lowering medications should consult a doctor before increasing their vinegar intake. 

Weight loss

The use of ACV for weight loss is very common. Studies have shown apple cider vinegar helps people lose weight by increasing the feeling of fullness. This leads to eating fewer calories and losing weight. Another study also found that consuming apple cider vinegar for 12 weeks showed a significant weight reduction, body fat ratio, waist-hip ratio, body mass index (BMI), as well as fats and cholesterol in the blood. 

Skin health

Our skin is naturally a bit acidic. However, in conditions like eczema and dry skin, it may become less acidic, posing a risk of infections. Using topical apple cider vinegar or ACV drink may help rebalance the natural skin pH, protecting the skin barrier. This results in acne-free, smooth, and clear skin. Long-term consumption of ACV can also improve the skin’s elasticity and reduce sagging. 

For hair

The list of ACV benefits also includes hair health. Just mixing two tablespoons of ACV with olive oil and massaging into damp hair causes helps fight dandruff and retain essential moisture. 

Menstrual cramps

The benefits of apple cider vinegar for women are crucial. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps reduce painful menstrual cramps by increasing blood circulation to the uterus and restoring ovary function. 

Hence, ACV is known as a holistic health booster and restorative powerhouse with healing properties. From boosting immunity to improving skin health, ACV does it all. 

How to use apple cider vinegar? 

There are many unique uses of apple cider vinegar, including food, skin, and hair. ACV is safe to consume and can add a dash of tart to your meals. 

• Food: You can use it to dash up your salads, stews, and marinades. 
• Drinks: You can also dilute it in cold or warm water and consume it as a drink. 
• ACV supplements: There are apple cider vinegar tablets, gummies, and concentrates available to consume. Go for a safe and organic brand and check for certifications for quality. 

Apple cider vinegar benefits the skin

You can do a patch test to check if ACV is safe for your skin. If it is OK, you can use it for eczema by applying it on your skin. You can also add some apple cider vinegar to a tubful of warm water, and soak in it for 20-25 minutes. A wet wrap on the skin also suffices as a good option. 

Apple cider vinegar for hair

To use apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a hair rinse, apply it after shampooing. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinse it out. Use it only once a week to avoid drying out your hair. Diluting ACV reduces irritation to your scalp and skin. Some beauty sites suggest mixing equal parts ACV and water, while others recommend 2-4 tablespoons of ACV in 2 cups of water. It's best to start with a weaker solution. 

Where to find Apple Cider Vinegar? 

apple cider vinegar, harvested from Himalayan red and golden apples is by far the best choice. It has 2x mother and digestive enzymes to provide holistic well-being. It is also infused with the goodness of turmeric for a boost of immunity.  

Takeaways 

ACV  is more than just a kitchen staple. It is a versatile and holistic ingredient with numerous health benefits. From aiding digestion and weight loss to enhancing skin and hair health, ACV proves to be a valuable addition to your daily routine. Embrace the power of this natural elixir and discover the myriad ways it can boost your well-being. 

References: 

Yagnik D, Ward M, Shah AJ. Antibacterial apple cider vinegar eradicates methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus and resistant Escherichia coli. Sci Rep. 2021 Jan 20;11(1):1854. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-78407-x. PMID: 33473148; PMCID: PMC7817673. 

Gheflati A, Bashiri R, Ghadiri-Anari A, Reza JZ, Kord MT, Nadjarzadeh A. The effect of apple vinegar consumption on glycemic indices, blood pressure, oxidative stress, and homocysteine in patients with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2019 Oct;33:132-138. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2019.06.006. Epub 2019 Jul 9. PMID: 31451249. 

Abou-Khalil R, Andary J, El-Hayek EApple cider vinegar for weight management in Lebanese adolescents and young adults with overweight and obesity: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled studyBMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health 2024;e000823. doi: 10.1136/bmjnph-2023-000823. 

Wu D, Kimura F, Takashima A, Shimizu Y, Takebayashi A, Kita N, Zhang G, Murakami T. Intake of vinegar beverage is associated with restoration of ovulatory function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Tohoku J Exp Med. 2013 May;230(1):17-23. doi: 10.1620/tjem.230.17. PMID: 23666047.