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apple cider vinegar

6 Surprising Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

By Stephanie K. Taylor

There’s a lot of talk surrounding the health benefits of superfoods. Spinach was trending, then kale, quinoa, and now avocados are everywhere.  However, there is an age-old remedy that hasn’t gotten quite as much hype but is slowly starting to receive the recognition it deserves: raw, organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar, otherwise known as ACV.

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Its raw enzymes and beneficial bacteria are responsible for a laundry list of health benefits. The best way to get your daily dose is to add a tablespoon to warm water with a little bit of honey. We’re huge fans of the Meta D shots suggested by the team over at Tone It Up. 

 

1.  It helps regulate blood sugar

One of the most popular uses of ACV is in helping people with Type 2 diabetes or who are pre-diabetic stabilize blood sugar levelt. A study by dietitian Carol Johnston, associate director of the Arizona State University’s School of Nutrition and Health, shows that the acetic acid in ACV stops starch absorption, lowering glucose levels.

2. Hello weight loss

Although ACV won’t lead to drastic weight loss, it can be used as a piece of the puzzle in a well-balanced weight loss plan. A 12-week study of 175 heavy, yet otherwise healthy test subject, showed that ACV helps to suppress the accumulation of fat tissue, reducing body weight, body mass index, visceral fat, waist measurements and triglyceride levels. The results showed an average of 2 to 4 pounds lost over a three month period. Combine ACV with a health diet and exercise plan to see your best results.

3. Ease cold symptoms

This health benefit dates back to the father of medicine, Hippocrates. Rumor has it he would mix ACV with honey to stop chronic coughs and sore throats. In the present day, many parents continue to use this method as a safe and effective method for children. ACV helps to alkalize your body, which helps it to more effectively fight off viruses that cause colds and the flu.

4. Improve heart health

Not only does ACV lower blood pressure, which lessens the risk of heart disease, but, according to a 2006 study reported in Medscape General Medicine, it also helps to increase the body’s levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL), or in other words, the good cholesterol. HDLs move throughout the bloodstream to help remove cholesterol from where it doesn’t belong.

5. Slow the aging process

ACV helps maintain the stability of pH balance (acid v. alkaline), which helps to prevent premature aging and even aid in slowing down the aging process. Vinegar’s antioxidant properties also play a role in anti-aging abilities.

6. Detox Organs

As it works to balance the body’s pH, ACV detoxifies the body, particularly the liver, and stimulates circulation. This flushing out process improves natural blood filtration while boosting energy levels. ACV also helps the body detoxify by breaking up mucus.

 

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