Many of us have heard the saying ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’. This may sound old fashioned, but it is based on sound evidence. The high nutritional content of apples means that they can support health in many different ways.
What is apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is made from crushed apples that undergo a natural fermentation process. This fermentation process involves the breakdown of sugar within the apple cider by bacteria and yeast. Like other vinegars, apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid as well as some citric and lactic acids. Apple cider vinegar also contains a high percentage of the nutrients found naturally within the fruit. These include potassium, pectin, calcium, b vitamins and magnesium.
Although little medical research has been officially conducted into the benefits apple cider vinegar can offer, this traditional folk remedy has remained popular for thousands of years, particularly as a weight loss aid. The main benefits of apple cider vinegar supplements include:
- Weight Loss – Apple cider vinegar can help to balance blood sugar levels after a meal. This prevents sugar crashes that trigger cravings for carbohydrates and sugary foods. It can also act as a natural appetite suppressant, which makes you feel fuller after a meal. For these reasons, apple cider vinegar can offer a much needed boost to a healthy weight loss regime.
- Blood Sugar – When consumed with a meal, the pectins in apple cider vinegar assist the break down of carbohydrates into sugar, which helps to slow the absorption of sugar into the blood stream. This reduces the rise in blood glucose levels that occur after eating a meal. For this reason, apple cider vinegar may be beneficial in the treatment of diabetes.
- Digestion – Apple cider vinegar is thought to maintain a healthy pH balance throughout the digestive system. A highly acidic pH level may cause dips in energy levels and a weak immune system. Apple cider vinegar also assists in the break down of fats from the foods we eat, which further supports healthy digestion and may improve bowel regularity. Taken 30 minutes before a meal, apple cider vinegar may also help to reduce the chance of indigestion and intestinal spasms.
- Blood Pressure – The potassium within apple cider vinegar may help to maintain normal blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to atherosclerosis, which is a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. Apple cider vinegar may be beneficial for mild to moderate high blood pressure.
- Cholesterol Levels – The acetic acid and pectin content in apple cider vinegar may help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels are known to significantly increase the risk of heart disease.
- Joint Health – Certain types of joint pain can be linked to the build up of toxins in joint tissues. Apple cider vinegar may help to flush these toxins from the body. Apple cider vinegar contains magnesium, calcium and potassium. Low levels of these essential minerals can result in aches, pains and muscle cramps.
- Asthma – Early findings from preliminary clinical studies show that apple cider vinegar may help to reduce the risk of asthma by up to one-third. These findings may be explained by apple cider vinegar’s high antioxidant content.
How much apple cider vinegar should I take?
Apple cider vinegar can be highly acidic and so many people prefer to take the vinegar in supplement form to protect tooth enamel and the lining of the throat. Apple cider vinegar supplements have been shown to be safe when taken within the recommended guidelines. People with diabetes may find apple cider vinegar supplements to be beneficial, but should always consult with a medical professional prior to supplementation. Certain nutrients within apple cider vinegar may interact with laxatives and diuretics, so use caution and consult with a medical professional prior to use if you are already taking such medication.
Simply Supplements’ own expert nutritionists have developed our high strength Apple Cider Vinegar 400mg capsules, which provide 19% acetic acid.
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