Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits!
Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits!
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are you’ve heard about the much-touted health benefits of apple cider vinegar. As with any trend, it’s easy to get lost in the hype. You might start believing that apple cider vinegar (ACV) is the miracle medicine to help you lose weight and banish belly fat. My personal training clients tell me about their nightly cocktail before bed which consists of two tablespoons of ACV. This is when I tell them, a well balanced diet and a consistent exercise program are key to weight loss. It is also the key to an improved physique and an overall healthier lifestyle. That’s not to say that consuming apple cider vinegar does not come with some health benefits. Studies have shown that consuming 2tbsps of ACV and 8 oz. of water can……
1. Reduce Blood Sugar Spikes
Apple cider vinegar is full of acetic acid, which has been proven to slow down the digestion of simple carbohydrates. This process helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Drinking apple cider vinegar before a high-carbohydrate meal improves insulin sensitivity. It does this by slowing the rate at which blood sugar levels rise.
2. Improved Digestion
Some studies have also stated that consuming raw unpasteurized ACV and water can help to naturally improve digestion. Drink 2 tbsps. ACV with 8 ounces of water about 15 minutes before your main meals. This will stimulate digestive juices for better breakdown of your food, which helps you assimilate more from your food.
3. Strengthen Your Immune System
Your intestinal flora is a big part of your body’s immune system. So by improving the conditions for the growth of friendly bacteria with ACV, you may improve overall immunity. The malic acid in ACV is also a strong antiviral. This could be one of the reasons people claim they experience fewer colds when they consume ACV with water on a regular basis. Additionally, raw and unfiltered ACV is said to benefit your lymphatic system. It does this by helping to cleanse lymph nodes resulting in the relief of sinus congestion and alleviation of allergies.
There you have it, ACV contains valuable minerals and trace elements. It also contains LDL cholesterol-lowering pectin, fat burning acetic acid, anti-viral malic acid, and many other beneficial nutrients. However, it isn’t a magical cure-all and doesn’t replace common sense behaviors like eating a healthy, balanced diet. Plus, vinegar is an acid, so going overboard with it or not rinsing out your mouth after consuming can erode tooth enamel. Some medications may also interact with apple cider vinegar, including insulin, digoxin and certain diuretics. As previously stated without a healthy eating plan and a consistent exercise regimen, improving your physique and reaching those weight loss goals may be a challenge. For more information on losing weight, improving your physique or if you’re frustrated with your current level of fitness and looking to hire a personal trainer, contact us today.
