Apple cider vinegar is one of the most lauded health foods today. A wide range of health benefits is credited to this liquid home remedy. People seemingly use it as a cure-all, from treating acne to helping manage diabetes.
This magic potion might sound too good to be true to you. If that’s the case, keep reading to learn what apple cider vinegar can actually do for you.
What Are the Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar?
The main active ingredient in apple cider vinegar is acetic acid. This ingredient is responsible for most health benefits of this liquid.
Fighting Bacteria
Apple cider vinegar has been traditionally used for cleaning and disinfecting, and combating infections. This is thanks to its documented antimicrobial effects. However, even if it can help kill harmful bacteria, you should never apply vinegar to open cuts and sores.
Regulating Blood Sugar
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has antiglycemic properties, meaning it can help keep blood sugar spikes at bay. Therefore, consuming this vinegar before a meal can benefit patients with type 2 diabetes.
Boosting Skin Health
Our skin is naturally slightly acidic, so applying apple cider vinegar may help balance the natural pH and improve the skin barrier. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, many people use it to remedy acne, eczema, and dry skin.
Aiding Weight Loss
Consuming apple cider vinegar before a meal may increase the feeling of fullness. As a result, people tend to eat fewer calories and lose weight. Although there are some studies on this benefit, the research is still inconclusive.
Don’t Believe Everything You Read
When reading about apple cider vinegar, you’ll probably find that it also clears up dandruff, whitens your teeth, and has many other curing properties. As there isn’t enough research to back up most of these claims, you should always consult with your doctor before trying this health trend.
