Did you know that something in your kitchen has the potential to change your life? No, it’s not that vegan chocolate bar you’ve been stashing away for a rainy day. In fact, this life-changing pantry staple doesn’t taste that great at all. It’s raw apple cider vinegar, and while the flavor might be less than desirable, it has more health benefits than you can shake a carrot stick at.
We know what you’re thinking. This is one of those new trends made popular by Pinterest and uber-healthy celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow. Nope. Apple cider vinegar has actually been used as a powerful cleansing and healing elixir since 400 B.C. We have Hippocrates to thank for that discovery. The father of medicine found that apple cider vinegar is a naturally occurring antibiotic and antiseptic that fights nasty germs and bacteria so we can live longer, healthier lives.
Apple cider vinegar has been used throughout history and is still just as useful today. Is this news as exciting to you as it is to us? We hope so. Because to make up for lost time, we pulled together a list of five healthy uses for apple cider vinegar that you can start experimenting with today. Oh, and it’s worth mentioning that you should always choose raw, organic apple cider vinegar to make sure it’s toxin-free.
1. Weight loss
Apple cider vinegar could actually help you lose weight. How? Well, the acetic acid makes you feel full and suppresses your appetite, which helps you eat less. Apple cider vinegar has also been shown to boost your metabolism, reduce bloating and slow fat accumulation.
2. Diabetes prevention
Could a spoonful of vinegar help your blood sugar go down? It’s possible. In one study, researchers found that diabetes patients who drank two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bed woke up with a 4-6 percent decrease in their blood sugar levels.
3. Digestive aid
The next time you have indigestion, sip some apple cider vinegar mixed with water to help settle your stomach. If it’s a bacterial infection, the apple cider vinegar’s antibiotic, bacteria-fighting properties could help contain the problem and make you feel better.
4. Lower cholesterol
According to a study published in the British Journal of Clinical Nutrition, drinking just one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar every morning has been shown to increase bile production and support healthy liver function, both of which are necessary for breaking down bad cholesterol.
5. Clears up a stuffy nose
Winter will be here before you know it. When you’re stuffed up from a cold, reach for the apple cider vinegar. The bacteria-busting elixir is rich in potassium, which thins mucus. The acetic acid also kills germs that can contribute to nasal congestion.
Angela K. Marvin
You can use it as hair conditioner! Just 1-2 T works in a squeeze bottle of water, along with some essential oils if you need them for scalp/skin conditions or just like the scent! I often use baking soda/essential oils as shampoo first and finish with the ACV concoction. (If you rinse it well and then blow-dry, you won't even smell it later.)
It's also great for detoxing in the bath (1/2 c ACV with 1/2 c baking soda, 2 C Epsom salts, and relaxing essential oils) and cleaning the house! I keep one bottle in the kitchen for cooking and drinking in water and one bottle in the bathroom for baths and cleaning. 🙂