Apple cider vinegar has always claimed to have a host of many health benefitsand has been used for centuries as a home remedy for many ailments. The sour, bitter vinegar can be diluted in water and drank, or even used to rinse hair to benefit the body and scalp. Zoe Kravitz and many other celebs even swear by it. In an interview with Elle magazine, Kravitz claims that drinking apple cider vinegar as a beverage strengthens her immune system and improves the clarity of her skin.
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Here are the five benefits of apple cider vinegar:
1. Weight Loss
Numerous studies have been conducted on whether or not apple cider vinegar aids in weight loss, and it looks like it just might. Conducted by Harvard Medical School a study in 2018, found that drinking apple cider vinegar speeds up the metabolism, burning fat easier and faster.
2. Blood Sugar Levels
Apple cider vinegar can also benefit those who are diabetic. A study published by the American Diabetes Association shows that drinking apple cider vinegar after a starchy meal can help to increase insulin sensitivity in those who are insulin resistant.
3. Hair
One of apple cider vinegar's long claimed benefits is for the hair. Doing an ACV rinse through your hair can reduce issues such as an itchy scalp or dandruff, it can even leave hair healthier and shinier with its many minerals such as manganese, iron, calcium and potassium. Of course, every scalp and hair type is different and some hair may not respond as well to apple cider vinegar as others.
4. Skin
Apple cider vinegar is also great for some skin conditions, although there is no scientific evidence as yet there are many anecdotes surrounding the success of the treatments. Dr Waldman of Harvard Medical School told Everyday Healththat she has seen many cases where apple cider vinegar has improved skin conditions when used with care. Such conditions include skin infections, psoriasis, eczema.
However, although apple cider vinegar has properties of a good AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), Waldman does not recommend the product for acne or rosacea as it dries out the skin and can damage the face's natural biome.
5. Tummy Troubles
Another perceived benefit lacking in scientific evidence is that apple cider vinegar can help with stomach issues. Many of those with irritable bowel syndrome have tried ACV in desperate hopes for relief and some found that drinking the vinegar can aid in bloating, gas and indigestion. Although there has been a previous study conducted by BMC Gastroenterology that showed that ACV slowed down stomach emptying, many IBS sufferers claim it actually helped.
Now you know the benefits here's how to consume it.
Apple cider vinegar is quite fickle and can be pretty damaging if not taken properly. It is suggested that 1-2 tablespoons per day diluted in a good amount of water should be completely safe to drink and to use as a rinse for hair or skin.
