Who doesn't have apple cider vinegar at home? This is one of the most common ingredients in the kitchen, however, many people use it at home or even for beauty and health treatments due to its multiple properties and benefits.
Is it good to drink apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is an ingredient used in various home remedies, both topically and ingested, but what is certain about its effectiveness? Is it really good to drink apple cider vinegar?
Dieticians and experts have been able to verify that apple cider vinegar does indeed have beneficial properties for health . This is due to its high content of acetic acid, because it is an ingredient with vitamins A and B, and because it also has essential minerals such as phosphorus, zinc or calcium.
However, while it is true that the consumption of apple cider vinegar can be beneficial, it is always recommended to consume it following specific recommendations. For example, the dose of 2 tablespoons diluted in water should not be exceeded, and it is not recommended to consume it as if it were a daily treatment, since ingested in excess can have some consequences.
What is apple cider vinegar for?
Apple cider vinegar is beneficial for different treatments in the field of beauty (as you will see in this article How to use apple cider vinegar for the face ). However, we also find many benefits of taking apple cider vinegar for health. We tell you:
Apple cider vinegar for diabetes
Among the benefits of taking apple cider vinegar, this is the most outstanding. This ingredient can help regulate diabetes due to its acetic acid content, a substance that manages to reduce blood sugar levels in this type of patient, as has been proven in recent studies.
In fact, experts have determined that in addition to improving insulin sensitivity, consuming apple cider vinegar after a meal leads to a marked improvement in blood glucose levels.
To combat digestive problems
The antioxidant and antispasmodic properties of apple cider vinegar are also ideal for reducing digestive problems. In this case, it should be noted that apple cider vinegar alone cannot cure diarrhea or severe stomach aches, but together with a bland diet, it can greatly improve symptoms.
The function of pectin is important, a fiber that contains this ingredient and that helps relieve gas, abdominal swelling, spasms , etc. Also, if you are used to suffering heartburn or heaviness after meals, apple cider vinegar diluted with water just after the meal can be your best ally.
Lower cholesterol
A 2018 study found that consuming apple cider vinegar could significantly reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Thanks to this, the risk factors for heart disease can be reduced and heart problems avoided, although always consuming the product carefully and without abusing it.
Apple cider vinegar for weight loss
Surely you have ever heard that vinegar to lose weight is a good home remedy. However, this benefit is very controversial, because while it is true that some studies have shown that apple cider vinegar can reduce fat levels in people, these studies have been carried out specifically with obese patients . This means that not everyone who takes apple cider vinegar will lose weight miraculously, although it can help obese individuals if taken before each meal and always diluted in a glass of water (no more than two tablespoons). We inform you better in this article How to take apple cider vinegar to lose weight .
How to drink apple cider vinegar before going to sleep
The best way to take apple cider vinegar without putting your health at risk is to dilute two tablespoons in a glass of water .
Several studies have determined that this is the best time of day to use this home remedy, as this is when the best results are obtained, specifically for those who take it to combat diabetes. This happens because acetic acid prevents the complete digestion of more complex carbohydrates, leading to lower blood glucose levels.
- Dilute two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
- Mix the ingredients well.
- If you find the taste very unpleasant, you can add a little cinnamon or a few drops of lemon juice.
However, for people who want to take apple cider vinegar to lose weight, the best option will be to dilute those two tablespoons in water and drink the mixture before each meal.
What happens with taking apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach ? It has been determined that taking apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach could carry health risks in certain patients, since the acid in the vinegar could cause gastric problems in people with a sensitive stomach. We inform you better in this article on fasting apple cider vinegar: what it is for and how to take it .
Apple cider vinegar contraindications
Although it is true that the consumption of apple cider vinegar is beneficial for certain treatments, consumed in excess could cause some minor problems, the most common being:
- Stomach ache or diarrhoea : the high acid content could lead to stomach problems, so it is important to never take more than two tablespoons and always dilute them in water.
- Tooth wear: the acid in vinegar could also be the cause of some tooth wear, although it should be noted that this only happens when this food is eaten repeatedly.
- Mouth irritations : as in the previous case, this side effect can be avoided with a responsible consumption of apple cider vinegar.
- It can reduce potassium levels : As we have said, this happens only in individuals who consume apple cider vinegar very often.
It is important not to consume this ingredient every day , since taken repeatedly could lead to health problems. It is best to take it occasionally or for a short period of time to relieve certain discomforts. However, if you want to include apple cider vinegar in your diet or take it for more days, it is essential that you consult your doctor so that he can recommend the best way to take it and thus avoid side effects.