The Amazing Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
The apple cider vinegar has been used a remedy since time unknown. This revered tonic is believed to contain properties that can cure a variety of ailments. Apple cider vinegar is made by fermentation. The apple juice is first fermented into alcohol and the alcohol is later fermented into vinegar.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar:
From treating stomach upset to soothing sore throats, there is a plethora of benefits of apple cider vinegar. Read on to know some important reasons to keep apple cider vinegar in your kitchen.
1. Stomach disorder:
The presence of pectin in apple cider vinegar forms a bulk fibrous matter in the stomach, treating diarrhea. It forms a protective coat, which soothes the colon lining and intestinal spasms. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in half-cup water to treat stomach disorders. Sipping 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water 30 minutes before dining can prevent indigestion.
2. Nasal blockage:
Drinking apple cider with water can help clear sinus drainage. Apple cider vinegar contains potassium, which thins out the mucus and prevents the bacterial growth, treating nasal congestion.
3. Hiccups:
Hiccups are caused when the stomach acid slows down the digestion of protein. Apple cider vinegar restores the acid balance of the stomach, easing the irritating spasms of the diaphragm.
4. Sore throat:
Apple cider vinegar can help to treat the infection, soothing the sore throat. The virus or infection cannot thrive in an acidic environment. Mix ¼-cup apple cider vinegar with ½ cup of water and gargle every hour until the pain subsides.
5. Swelling:
Rubbing apple cider vinegar on swollen hands or feet can reduce swelling. This makes it very effective for pregnant women.
6. Exhaustion:
Excess workout can cause the lactic acid to build up in the body, causing exhaustion and fatigue. The amino acids present in the apple cider vinegar act as an antidote, while the potassium and enzymes help to relieve the fatigue. Add just one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of vegetable juice to kick of exhaustion.
7. Leg cramps:
Drinking ACV diluted in water can help dissolve the acid crystals in the blood, thereby easing the leg cramps. It also provides calcium, potassium and other essential minerals that are required to ease the pain.
8. Dental health:
The acidic properties of apple cider vinegar make it an excellent remedy for bad breath. Gargle every morning with apple cider vinegar and water solution for 10 seconds. Gargling will also help to remove the stains, kill the bacteria and whiten the teeth.
9. Yeast infection:
Apple cider vinegar is one of the best ingredients for treating yeast infection and fungus. Add half a cup of apple cider vinegar into a bathtub filled with warm water and soak the area or body for about 20 minutes. Do this daily for three days to treat the infection. You can also apply some apple cider vinegar directly to the affected area. People with sensitive skin should dilute the vinegar before using it.
10. Blood sugar levels:
A 2007 study found that people who consumed 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bed noticed a significant reduction in their blood sugar levels. The low glycemic index of the apple cider vinegar improves the insulin sensitivity in the body, thereby keeping the blood sugar levels stable. Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and take 3 times a day. This will improve the stomach’s rate of digestion, which will keep the blood sugar levels steady. Diabetics should consult their physician before taking apple cider vinegar.
11. Weight loss:
Acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can promote weight loss in obesity stricken people. It contains pectin, a type of insoluble fiber that keeps you full and satiated. Take two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 8 oz. of water before every meal to promote satiety. Apple cider vinegar promotes weight loss by boosting the metabolism. Acetic acid suppresses the appetite and reduces water retention, promoting weight loss. A small trial in 2005 found that people who ate a piece of bread with small amounts of vinegar felt fuller quickly than those who did not have vinegar. They are also less likely to binge on unhealthy foods later in the day. Apple cider vinegar also interferes with the digestion of starch, preventing the entrance of excess calories in the bloodstream.
12. Heart health:
A research has found that regular consumption of apple cider vinegar improves the lipid profile of the blood by decreasing LDL of triglyceride level. Besides, it also improves the levels of HDL or good cholesterol in the blood.
13. As a hair rinse:
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps to remove the build up from the styling products and conditioner. It strengthens the hair shaft, leaving you with soft and shiny hair. ACV also balances the hair pH level of the scalp, promoting hair growth. Dilute 1/3 cup ACV in 4 cups of water and rinse your hair with it after shampooing. Leave it for a minute and wash it off with cold water to seal the hair shaft and create more shine.
14. Skin health:
Mix equal quantities of bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar and add a tablespoon of raw honey to it. Apply it to the skin and wash it off with water after 10 to 15 minutes. This detoxifying mask will draw out dirt from the deep pores, giving you a squeaky-clean skin. Adding two caps of apple cider vinegar to your bathing water will draw out the toxins from the body, leaving you with a well-toned and moisturized skin.
15. As a Toner:
Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a skin toner. Soak cotton in apple cider vinegar and rub on the skin and dry spots to prevent breakouts and minimize the blemishes. Applying cotton soaked in apple cider vinegar can relieve the pain caused due to sunburn. The anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar can also help to ease the psoriasis pain and itching.
16. Alleviate the signs of ageing:
Sulfur in apple cider vinegar helps to fight the signs of ageing like spots, blemishes and wrinkles. Dab some apple cider vinegar every night before going to sleep to fade the spots. People with sensitive skin can dilute the vinegar if they feel the stinging sensation.
17. Varicose veins:
Apple cider vinegar improves the circulation in the vein walls, easing the bulging and swelling of the veins. Apply apple cider vinegar every morning and night in circular motions, until it gets absorbed. You will notice a marked improvement within a month.
18. Acne remedy:
The high acidic content in the ACV kills the acne causing bacteria and absorbes the excessive oil from the skin, treating acne. The malic and lactic acid found in ACV softens and exfoliate the skin, reducing the appearance of acne scars. Mix one part vinegar to three parts of water and apply it using a clean cotton pad. Leave it for about ten minutes and then wash it off. People with severe acne condition can leave it overnight.
19. Wart:
Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and place it on the wart. Secure it with a bandage and leave it overnight. Apply this remedy twice a day for a week to see positive results. Once the wart falls off, continue this treatment for some weeks to make sure the wart does not resurface.
20. Dandruff:
Apple cider vinegar is very effective against dandruff. The acidity of the ACV balances the pH level of the scalp, making it difficult for the yeast to grow. Mix equal part of vinegar and water and spritz it on the hair and scalp. Wrap your head in a towel and leave it for an hour. Follow this method twice a week to get rid of dandruff.
21. Heartburn:
Apple cider vinegar can also reduce the heartburn in the chest. Take one teaspoon of vinegar and follow it with a bottle of water to get instant relief. However, apple cider vinegar will not give relief from ulcer.
22. Growth hormone production:
The acid present in apple cider vinegar helps to break down the protein we eat into amino acid. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. These proteins have to be broken down so that it can provide fuel to different processes in the body. The increased availability of amino acids will help to create more growth hormone. Mix 2 tablespoons of vinegar with 1 cup of water and drink before each meal.
23. Iron:
The acid found in apple cider vinegar releases the iron, a key component of hemoglobin and myoglobin throughout the body. This will facilitate the transportation of oxygen cells throughout the body. Oxygen is required to increase the body’s ability to burn calories.
24. Mood enhancement:
Apple cider vinegar is responsible for the creation of tryptophan, a hormone that plays a major role in the release of serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitters. Serotonin hormones elevate the moods and keeps us relaxed, helping to keep anxiety and depression at bay.
25. Cleansing:
Apple cider vinegar can also help you get a clean and shiny house. Take one part of vinegar, two parts of water and a few drops of tea tree oil. Shake well and your all-purpose cleaner is ready to use. To get rid of the fleas, spray water and apple cider vinegar solution on them.
Apple cider vinegar can leave the bathroom smelling like apples. Pour cold apple cider vinegar in the toilet and allow it to sit overnight.
Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a substitute for dish detergent. Mix ½ cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water and use the solution to clean kitchen station, microwave, kitchen cabinets and glasses.
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