Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Antioxidant Effect

Apple cider vinegar has a strong sour smell and flavour because of its acetic acid content. Apple cider vinegar is about 5-6% acetic acid. Studies suggest that this particular acid is responsible for most health benefits of apple cider vinegar.

Study findings show that ACV possesses significant antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effects in an experimental model, preventing diabetic complications in the liver and kidneys. Antioxidants help in reducing oxidative stress, making them beneficial for our health. For example, antioxidants help prevent diseases like cancer and arthritis.

Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Properties

Hippocrates, a Greek physician and surgeon, 460-377 BC, known as the father of medicine, used vinegar to irrigate open wounds and wrapped dressings around wounds to prevent further injury. He washed ulcers with wine, and after softening them with oil, he dressed them with fig leaves.

Apple cider vinegar can aid in killing harmful bacteria. People have been traditionally using vinegar for warts and ear infections. You can also use it to treat nail fungus, disinfect and clean. People also use it as a food preservative. Several studies suggest that it can inhibit bacteria like E.Coli, which spoils the food.

Antidiabetic Properties

One of the most prevalent vinegar uses is to treat type II diabetes. It is a condition characterised by increased blood glucose levels and occurs due to the inability to produce insulin. It also results in insulin resistance. Studies suggest that vinegar controls blood glucose levels.

Nonetheless, non-diabetic individuals might also benefit. It improves overall blood glucose levels by keeping them within the normal range. However, remember to consult your doctor before taking them, especially if you are on any blood-glucose-lowering (diabetic) medications.

Weight Loss

Vinegar is a popular ingredient for its weight loss abilities. Some studies report that it can help you lose weight.

Extra calorie consumption is one of the primary reasons for weight gain. Our bodies store these calories as fat. Studies suggest that vinegar can reduce fat storage, contributing to weight loss. It does so by improving fat metabolism in the body.