Apple cider vinegar exploded onto the health and wellness scene within recent years. People lunged for Bragg’s on grocery shelves because of claims that report balanced blood sugar levels, faster metabolism, improved skin health, and overall detoxification. Apple cider vinegar does have proven health benefits, and this article highlights why you should always have it in your house.

What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?

The all-powerful ACV is made from fermented apples and water. Similar to other vinegars, ACV has 5% acidity, but it differs from other vinegars in that the fermentation process forms healthy enzymes and probiotics. Some brands decide to distill ACV, which appears clear in the bottle, but the raw unfiltered ACV is the one you want. Containing “the mother,” the cloudy substance that floats around in the bottle, raw unfiltered ACV is perfectly safe and healthy to consume.

Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

Reduces Cholesterol

Arteries begin to narrow when cholesterol builds up inside them. If you don’t do anything about it, cholesterol can harden and strain your heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Several studies have shown that ACV works to reduce bad LDL cholesterol levels and promotes beneficial HDL cholesterol levels. Add one to two tablespoons of raw unfiltered ACV to your morning glass of water to help keep cholesterol levels in check. Additionally, maintain a balanced diet that includes healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes.

Decreases Inflammation

Many people use ACV to help naturally reduce inflammation, especially if they have arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or ankylosing spondylitis (AS). ACV contains acetic acid, which is responsible for the tart taste, but it also has an alkalizing effect in the body when metabolized. The polyphenolic compounds, including chlorogenic acid, catechin, quercetin, and epicatechin, all work to reduce acidity in the body. There is a direct link between excess acidity and chronic inflammation, so add ACV to your daily regimen.

Improves Your Skin

If you suffer from eczema or other conditions that cause dry or flaky skin, consider using ACV. Applying ACV to the skin can help balance the skin’s natural pH level, which can improve the protective barrier. Additionally the antibacterial properties help to reduce infections. Keep in mind that you should not apply ACV directly onto the skin; rather, you should mix it with other ingredients before application. Also, it may not be beneficial for everyone. One study with 22 eczema patients found that ACV actually irritated the skin.

Fights Yeast Infections

One case study in the journal of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine examined the topical use of ACV on a 32-year-old woman, who suffered from yeast infections. Researchers explained that previous integrative treatments proved unsuccessful, but the use of ACV improved her situation. Because the vagina has a delicate pH balance, experts advise against putting anything on the vagina. Only apply ACV if you consult with a gynecologist first.

Reduces Blood Pressure

High blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, and this can weaken the muscle over time. According to one animal study in Japan, acetic acid (a major component in raw unfiltered ACV) helped reduce blood pressure levels in rats with high blood pressure. Another animal study found that the acetic acid inhibited the function of an enzyme that increases blood pressure levels. In addition to consuming ACV, consume more foods that are rich in magnesium and potassium, and avoid processed foods, fried foods, and refined sugars.

Promotes Weight Loss

There is growing research on ACV’s ability to promote weight loss. Fitness enthusiasts, bloggers, and alternative wellness influencers alike rave about how they lost weight by consuming ACV every day. New research shows that ACV gives you the feeling of satiety, i.e. you feel full. Another study found that people who added one tablespoon of ACV to their daily diet reduced their caloric intake by 275 calories. Finally, a 12-week study found that consuming two tablespoons of ACV daily, with no other dietary modifications, led to four pounds of weight lost.