20 Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Here are some of the potential health benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV):
- May help with weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing calorie intake.
- May lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes or prediabetes.
- May improve insulin sensitivity and help manage type 2 diabetes.
- May reduce cholesterol levels, including lowering LDL "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL "good" cholesterol.
- May have antimicrobial effects and help kill harmful bacteria like E. coli.
- May improve digestive health due to its probiotic content, especially the "mother" in unfiltered ACV.
- May help preserve food by preventing the growth of E. coli and other pathogens.
- May ease symptoms of acid reflux when diluted with water.
- May help regulate blood pressure in rats, but more research is needed in humans.
- May provide eczema relief, but some studies found it irritated skin.
- May promote hair health by removing product buildup and fighting bacteria and fungi.
- May help detoxify the liver, but this claim lacks scientific evidence.
- May improve heart health by reducing risk factors like high cholesterol and triglycerides.
- May have antioxidant effects due to its polyphenol content.
- May contain amino acids and other beneficial compounds.
- May help manage hunger and cravings, leading to reduced calorie intake.
- May improve skin health when used topically, but can cause burns if undiluted.
- May help treat nail fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections when used topically.
- May help clean and disinfect wounds, as Hippocrates used vinegar for this purpose over 2,000 years ago.
- May help remove calcium deposits and leave hair shinier when used as a rinse after shampooing.
However, it's important to note that many of these benefits are based on limited or anecdotal evidence, and more research is needed to confirm them. Additionally, consuming undiluted ACV can damage tooth enamel and irritate the throat, so it's best to dilute it with water or juice.