Is Apple Cider Vinegar Beneficial For Health? – BB's General Store
It is one of the most talked about health products in recent times. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made from apple must or juice that is fermented into alcohol. It is then further fermented into acetic acid which gives it its sour taste. ACV contains many nutrients including minerals, potassium, B-vitamins and enzymes that have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. ACV also contains a polyphenol called pectin which is known to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, lower risk of heart disease and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Overall, there are many reported health benefits associated with apple cider vinegar including reducing weight, controlling blood sugar levels, maintaining healthy blood pressure and weight loss. As with any health product, whether that is a supplement or food based, it is important to consider who the product is suitable for before deciding if it is worth trying for yourself. If you have diabetes, high cholesterol or heart disease then ACV may be beneficial in reducing these risks factors but consult your dietitian or doctor before using. The following are other conditions it may be suitable for:
Reducing weight – ACV has very few kilojoules (8kJ per tablespoon) and can therefore assist with weight loss by reducing energy intake during the day. The acetic acid in ACV is known to reduce hunger and suppress the appetite. It is therefore particularly beneficial for those looking to achieve weight loss or reduce their energy intake during weight management programs e.g. diabetics who are looking to lose weight but still need to adhere to a low kilojoule diet
ACV has very few kilojoules (8kJ per tablespoon) and can therefore assist with weight loss by reducing energy intake during the day. The acetic acid in ACV is known to reduce hunger and suppress the appetite. It is therefore particularly beneficial for those looking to achieve weight loss or reduce their energy intake during weight management programs e.g. diabetics who are looking to lose weight but still need to adhere to a low kilojoule diet Controlling blood sugar levels – ACV has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. The pectin in ACV is also known to lower serum cholesterol and reduce risk of heart disease
ACV has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. The pectin in ACV is also known to lower serum cholesterol and reduce risk of heart disease Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels – ACV has been shown to decrease systolic blood pressure by 6mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 3.7 mmHg. Those with high blood pressure should try supplementing their diet with 1-2 tablespoons per day in divided doses and monitor their blood pressure
ACV has been shown to decrease systolic blood pressure by 6mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 3.7 mmHg. Those with high blood pressure should try supplementing their diet with 1-2 tablespoons per day in divided doses and monitor their blood pressure Taking before or after exercise – ACV has been shown to improve recovery after exercise due to the high potassium content and the role this plays in tissue repair and muscle building/repair. As with any supplement, it is important that you do your research and speak to a dietitian if you plan on taking ACV before or after exercise as different people will require different dosages to gain the benefits.