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Apple Cider Vinegar 101: Harnessing Its Potential

30 Jun 2015
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Apple cider vinegar, with a history dating back to at least 3000 BC, has been used for various ailments. Ancient civilizations like the Babylonians, Greeks, & Japanese Samurai warriors believed in its healing properties. It is made by crushing apples & collecting the concentrated liquid, which can be organic & unfiltered, containing beneficial elements like "mother," proteins, enzymes, & bacteria.

There are two types: natural & synthetic, with natural ACV being more expensive but offering remarkable health benefits compared to the cheaper synthetic version.

Nutritional Composition:

The various ingredients found in Apple Cider Vinegar serve to enhance its health benefits. Calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, malic acid, & pectin are some of the nutrients present in it. The main component of ACV is acetic acid which is also known as ethanoic acid, a colorless liquid that has a pungent smell & sour taste.

How each of these nutrients benefit our body:

Potassium: to avoid runny nose, hair loss, & brittle teeth.

Malic Acid: to fight infections from harmful bacteria & fungus.

Acetic Acid: accounts for the sour taste of vinegar; lowers the blood's pH levels thereby creating an inhospitable intestinal environment for bacterial & fungal infections. 

Pectin: facilitates regulation of blood pressure & removal of bad cholesterol. Lastly, it contains other ingredients like Folic Acid, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Sodium, Phosphorus, Calcium, & Iron.

Choosing the Right ACV:

When it comes to apple cider vinegar (ACV), there is often confusion about which variant is better for our health. With numerous brands available in the market, including organic, synthetic, & those containing the 'MOTHER,' it can be overwhelming to choose. To make an informed decision, let's explore the differences & benefits of each variant of ACV.

ORGANIC APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SYNTHETIC APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Organic apple cider vinegar is natural in form. It is rich, amber in color with a cloudy appearance referred to as the "mother of vinegar." Non-organic apple cider vinegar  has undergone pasteurization. It has a bright color, free from cloudiness, & often appealing to buyers. 
The mother of vinegar is where all the vitamins, minerals, & enzymes associated with apple cider vinegar are found.  The pasteurization process of non-organic apple cider vinegar removes the mother of vinegar hence it lacks essential nutrients. 
The organic apple cider vinegar contains bacteria because of the lack of any pasteurization or distillation.  The vinegar does not contain intact enzymes & is not as easy to tolerate by the body.

 

Home remedies with Apple Cider Vinegar :

  • ACV is very effective in treating skin problems & preventing acne. The acidity present in ACV dries the blemished patch of skin & allows fresh, healthy skin to replace it.

  • Maintain the pH balance of your facial skin by mixing 1 part ACV with two parts water. You can use this concoction every day as a toner with the help of a cotton ball along the T-zone i.e; forehead, nose, & chin.

  • Soothe a sunburn as you add 1 cup ACV to your bath, & soak for 10 minutes.

  • For added body & shine to your hair, try applying a mixture of 1/2 tablespoon of ACV mixed with 1 cup of water, followed by a rinse.

  • ACV reactivates the hair follicles & also treats dandruff & itchy scalp.

  • Give yourself an at-home pedicure by soaking your feet in equal parts warm water & ACV. Its antifungal properties will keep your feet healthy, soft, & clean.

  • The nutrients & vitamins present in ACV can help alleviate & minimize the dysfunction of varicose veins

  • To specifically target age spots, create a mixture of 1 tablespoon of orange juice & 2 tablespoons of ACV, as this combination can help fade the appearance of age spots.

 

Here are five recipes that you can make using Apple Cider Vinegar:

 

Immunity booster:

This power-packed drink is loaded with nutrients & antioxidants. The combination of green tea & ACV is an excellent source of antioxidants for the maintenance of good health. Green tea is rich in catechins & hence helps to increase the metabolic rate, reduce body fat, & improve overall weight loss. Cinnamon & ginger, both, helps lower cholesterol & type 2 diabetes.

To know the full recipe, Read more

 

Kick it up salad dressing:

Apple cider vinegar is a versatile ingredient often used in salad dressings, allowing you to explore creative alternatives to the typical olive oil-based dressings. In addition, this recipe includes liquid stevia, a natural low-calorie sweetener that is beneficial for diabetics & supports healthy blood pressure maintenance.

To know the full recipe, Read more

 

Lose it salad dressing:

The ingredients of this recipe include ACV along with flaxseed & garlic. Both apple cider vinegar & ground flax seeds offer remarkable digestive benefits, aiding in body cleansing. Flax seeds are rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, & lignins, which are beneficial phytochemicals. They contribute to lowering LDL cholesterol levels & reducing the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, garlic's sulfur-containing compounds help prevent blockages & the development of arteriosclerosis in our blood vessels.

To know the full recipe, Read more

 

Detox drink:

This incredible health drink helps you burn fat, boost metabolism, lose weight, fight diabetes, & lower blood pressure.

To know the full recipe, Read more

 

Healthy cider salad dressing:

This incredible salad dressing is full of herbs rich in antioxidants. Rosemary & thyme are rich in polyphenols that are known to cut the risk of heart disease. Basil is a versatile herb with antiviral, anti-fungal, & anti-cancer properties also known to cure digestive disorders.

To know the full recipe, Read more

In conclusion, apple cider vinegar (ACV) offers a range of potential health benefits. From aiding digestion to promoting weight loss, supporting heart health, & managing blood sugar levels, ACV can be a valuable addition to a balanced lifestyle. Incorporating ACV into your routine may provide a natural & beneficial boost to your overall well-being.


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