health

4 unexpected health benefits of apple cider vinegar

You've surely heard the old saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," but you know what else helps you stay out of the doctor's office? Apple cider vinegar. This type of vinegar has a variety of health benefits and provides cures and quick fixes for a range of common ailments and illnesses. A little goes a long way in terms of health and well-being.

Of course, continue to bite into those crisp and juicy apples, but take in a spoonful or two of apple cider vinegar when you want to heal yourself naturally too. Here are some excellent health benefits of apple cider vinegar that will have you at your best in no time.

1. Regulates Blood Sugar

According to Reader's Digest, those with type 2 diabetes who took two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bedtime, with meals especially, had lower glucose levels in their blood by morning. Scientists say this is due to the antiglycemic effect of the acid in the vinegar.

As per WebMD, "The vinegar prevents at least some of the starch from being digested and raising your blood sugar." It is a healthy way to lower blood sugar levels without medications.

2. Detoxifies the Liver

As per Natural Living Ideas, "In the process of helping to balance the body's pH, apple cider vinegar works to help detoxify the body. Research has found that it specifically helps detox the liver, and that it can help stimulate circulation." The vinegar flushes out toxins and helps the blood filtrate more efficiently.

LiveStrong notes that this detoxification process amps up energy levels as a result. Just mix 1 to 2 tsp. vinegar into an 8-oz. glass of water and drink up for detox the natural way.

3. Helps with Weight Loss

So many of us seek to drop a few lbs. and apple cider vinegar may be just the trick to slimming down. As per Reader's Digest, "The acetic acid suppresses your appetite, increases your metabolism, and reduces water retention." It also interferes with starch absorption as noted in the blood sugar regulation section, meaning that fewer calories are stored.

According to Authority Nutrition, studies have shown that apple cider vinegar boosts metabolism, reduces fat storage, and burns fat. Dr. Ozadds, "If you are struggling to lose weight in your midsection, drinking apple cider vinegar might particularly benefit you." OK, doc, we'll follow your prescription!

4. Aids in Prevention of Osteoporosis

According to Natural Living Ideas, "More than one in four women in America over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. To get this diagnosis means that they've lost 50 to 75 percent of the original bone material from their skeleton."

Apple cider vinegar can help prevent this from occurring since it aids in the absorption of calcium which hinders the onset and progression of osteoporosis. Who knew this special vinegar had such bone-building powers?

Looks like the apple cider vinegar doesn't fall far from the apple tree in terms of good health. It's just what the doctor ordered!

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