Better digestion and a stronger immune system: 10 Health benefits of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a folk remedy that has been used for centuries. Because it is a rich source of antioxidant chemicals, ACV is capable of providing a number of remarkable health benefits, such as improving your digestion, supporting your immune system and helping you shed a few pounds. ACV is also incredibly easy to add to your diet. You can use it to make a homemade salad dressing, add it to your favorite smoothie or mix it with raw honey and turmeric to make a potent immune-boosting shot. Here are 10 health benefits you can enjoy when you add ACV to your diet.

It can support a healthy immune system

ACV possesses potent antiviral and anti-fungal properties that can support a healthy immune system. It is also loaded with antioxidant chemicals, such as catechin and quercetin, that can combat oxidative stress and boost immune function.

It can improve digestion and nutrient absorption

If you want to experience better nutrient absorption, try taking a small amount of ACV every day and eating calcium-rich foods. Although ACV isn’t packed with nutrients, it can help improve your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, especially calcium.

It can support a healthy gut

ACV contains a beneficial component known as acetic acid. During the fermentation process, all the sugar in apples in converted into this organic acid. Acetic acid can support healthy gut function by increasing the acidity of your stomach, which promotes the formation of more digestive enzymes. These enzymes can help you break down foods more easily. (Related: 10 Reasons to use apple cider vinegar.)

It helps control blood sugar

You can help prevent blood sugar spikes by taking a little ACV before meals, especially if they are loaded with carbohydrates or starches. Supplementing with ACV can be especially useful for people with diabetes.

It helps you lose weight

People who want to lose weight can use ACV as a fitness aid. The acetic acid in ACV can suppress your appetite by making you feel fuller for longer. Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to six ounces of water and take small sips of this mixture throughout the day to help curb your cravings.

It can promote the growth of healthy skin

ACV isn’t just for eating. It can also be used as a great skin toner. Because of its acidity and anti-inflammatory properties, ACV can make an excellent addition to your skincare routine.

It can remove stains from teeth

Are your pearly whites a little more yellow than you’d like them to be? ACV can fix that for you. Simply create a natural whitening toothpaste by mixing two parts ACV with one part baking soda. Rub the paste directly onto your teeth then rinse with water. Do this several times a week. Your teeth should be significantly whiter in no time.

It supports a healthy detoxification process

Raw ACV has natural cleansing properties that can help flush out unwanted toxins from your body. It can also help reduce overall body fat. If you want to boost your body’s natural detox abilities, drink a mixture of ACV, honey and water every day.

It helps relieve constipation

By promoting a healthy gut microbiome, ACV can also help relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movement.

It has anti-inflammatory properties

Pectin is a fiber present in ACV that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive system.

It is generally recommended to take no more than eight ounces of ACV per day. When taken in moderate doses, ACV can offer numerous health benefits for your immune and digestive systems.

Sources include:

Blog.Paleohacks.com

DrMicrobiome.com

MindBodyGreen.com