Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
By Madhusudhan Tammisetti
Apple cider vinegar is produced from ripe apples that have been freshly crushed. The apples are fermented and put through a rigorous procedure to create the final vinegar product. The crushed apples are first exposed to yeast to initiate the alcoholic fermentation process, during which the sugars are converted to alcohol. The second stage involves adding bacteria to the alcohol solution, which ferments the alcohol and converts it to acetic acid.
One tablespoon (15 grams) of apple cider vinegar contains just three calories and absolutely no carbohydrates. It includes trace quantities of potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. It may have pectin, B vitamins such as B1, B2, and B6, Vitamin C, biotin, niacin, folic acid, and pantothenic acid, much like apple juice.
The most active compound, acetic acid, is believed to be responsible for many health benefits, one of which is weight loss. The amino acids in the vinegar serve as antiseptics and antibiotics, and the vinegar's acetic acid content may help cure a variety of fungal and bacterial infections.
Helps in Weight Loss
Apple cider vinegar is widely regarded as an effective weight loss treatment. It works by forcing the body to burn excess calories and rev up the metabolism to its maximum potential. It helps the body regulate its appetite and burn fat. According to a study published by Japanese researchers, the key ingredient of apple cider vinegar, acetic acid, may help with metabolic syndrome by reducing obesity.
The Japanese subjects' BMI, body weight, visceral fat area, serum triglyceride levels, and waist circumference were all measured after they're given the vinegar. Their blood sugar levels were found to be much lower. This research suggests that consuming vinegar regularly may help reduce metabolic syndrome by reducing obesity.
Prevents Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD or acid reflux, is a disorder in which food from the stomach goes into the esophagus, triggering symptoms such as nausea and heartburn. A study conducted by Arizona State University discovered that participants who took apple cider vinegar experienced a 75 percent decrease in acid reflux episodes and an hour delay in reflux as opposed to others who were given antacid. These promising results point to apple cider vinegar's possible effectiveness in the treatment of GERD.
Skin Care
Maintaining good skin requires balancing the body's pH levels, and apple cider vinegar's mild alkaline levels may help you achieve just that. This vinegar has a pH level close to that of the skin's protective acid mantle. An apple cider vinegar rinse may help preserve the skin's shine while still preventing pore dilation. This prevents the skin from being too oily or dry while also balancing sebum output and improving nutrient circulation.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in North Hollywood, Calif.