Is Apple Cider Vinegar good for you?

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is well beyond its use as a staple in salad dressings and is now a celebrated health elixir. Known for its tangy taste and numerous health benefits, ACV is a versatile ingredient that can positively impact your well-being in various ways. Here’s some reasons why:

Probiotic Properties and Gut Health

One of the most important benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar is its impact on digestive health. ACV contains probiotics which are beneficial bacteria essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome; which is crucial for overall health. Probiotics in ACV can help balance the gut flora, leading to improved digestion and a reduced risk of gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and indigestion.

Boosting Energy Levels

Apple Cider Vinegar’s influence on energy levels can be linked to its effects on blood sugar levels and mitochondrial function. The acetic acid in ACV has been shown to help stabilise blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. For people who experience blood sugar spikes and drops, stabilizing these levels can prevent energy crashes throughout the day, leading to a more sustained energy release.

Moreover, some studies suggest that ACV can improve mitochondrial efficiency, which plays a crucial role in energy production within cells. By enhancing how mitochondria convert nutrients into energy, ACV can potentially increase energy at a cellular level, supporting overall vitality and endurance.

Additional Health Benefits

Beyond its effects on gut health and energy levels, Apple Cider Vinegar offers several other health benefits:

• Weight Management: ACV can promote feelings of satiety, helping to control appetite and potentially aid in weight loss.
• Heart Health: The polyphenols found in apple cider vinegar, such as chlorogenic acid, are believed to contribute to lowering blood pressure and improving heart health.
• Skin Health: When diluted and applied topically, ACV can help restore the skin's pH levels, enhancing skin health and treating conditions like acne.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar

You can cook with ACV, add it to a salad dressing or just take it raw from the bottle. ACV is quite strong however, and I have had a few clients mention how it intially felt a bit harsh on their stomach. Therefore I would start with small amounts of about half a tea spoon with a glass of water and work your way up to a tablespoon daily. Make sure to rinse your mouth after if you get any on your teeth as it is quite acidic and can cause enamel erosion if used regularly and left on your teeth for a long time.