Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one of my favorite superfoods, perfect for everyday use (check out my Instagram reel!). Not only does it add fantastic flavor to meals, but it also offers a range of health benefits. I’ve talked a lot about the benefits of this amazing liquid in previous posts and videos, but I haven’t yet explored its other great uses.
ACV is best known as a digestive aid, but it has many other uses that might make you want to use it more often. However, it’s important to know that not all apple cider vinegars are the same, so I’ll share my top tips for selecting the healthiest and best ACV available. The great news is that even the highest-quality ACV is budget-friendly, which is another reason it’s one of my essential superfoods—it’s both affordable and easy to find.
Today, I’m going to dive into what apple cider vinegar really is, share some cool facts about this superfood, and guide you on how to pick the best quality ACV for your needs.
**What is Apple Cider Vinegar?**
Apple cider vinegar is considered a fermented food, especially if you choose the unpasteurized kind. It undergoes two fermentation processes to create this health-boosting elixir that benefits everything from our gut health to our hair. The process starts by juicing apples, then adding specific yeast strains to convert sugars into alcohol. Afterward, bacteria are introduced to transform the alcohol into acetic acid. This acetic acid, along with the bacteria and yeasts, is what gives ACV its superpowers!
**8 Fun Facts About Apple Cider Vinegar**
Reading these 8 fun facts might just convince you to make apple cider vinegar a staple in your kitchen!
1. **Balances Blood Sugar**: ACV has anti-glycemic properties, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Glucose expert Jesse Inchauspe suggests taking a tablespoon of ACV in water before meals to reduce glucose spikes by up to 30%. This balance is crucial for overall health, including improving skin and energy levels.
2. **Aids in Weight Loss**: Research in Japan found that daily consumption of ACV helped participants lose more weight than those who didn’t. This may be due to its effect on fat breakdown genes.
3. **Soothes Upset Stomach**: Unfiltered ACV contains probiotics that promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding overall digestive health, immunity, and even mental health.
4. **Natural Cleaning Solution**: ACV is a non-toxic cleaner. Mix it with water to clean surfaces. Add essential oils for additional cleaning power and fragrance.
5. **Safe Herbicide**: ACV effectively kills weeds in gardens, offering a natural alternative to chemical herbicides.
6. **Boosts Energy**: With its enzymes and minerals, ACV is a great addition to homemade energy drinks. Mix it with water, maple syrup, lemon or lime, and ginger for a healthy pick-me-up.
7. **Detox Benefits**: ACV may help improve lymph circulation and supports digestion with its enzymes.
8. **Freshens Breath**: The antibacterial properties of ACV can help combat bad breath naturally.
**Bonus Fact: Hair Care**: ACV is an excellent hair rinse, balancing scalp pH for softer, shinier hair.
For effective hair care, try a weekly rinse with a solution of 2 parts water to 1 part ACV. Let it sit for a minute or two after shampooing for the best results.
**Important Notes**
Before you start using ACV, consider these tips to ensure you’re using it effectively and healthily.
**Shopping Tips for Apple Cider Vinegar**
While traveling in Austria, I picked up a bottle of ACV for salad dressing, only to realize afterward it had added sugar and apple juice—taking away those blood sugar benefits! To avoid this, use these helpful tips for buying your ACV:
Getting the healthiest ACV ensures you enjoy all its great benefits. For more health tips, you can check out my book JOYOUS HEALTH, especially the chapter on digestion.
I hope these 8 fun facts encourage you to give ACV a try! Whether you’re using it for digestion or any of its other benefits, make sure to find what works best for you. If you experience any discomfort, it might be best to avoid it or consult your health provider. Here’s to discovering even more ways to enjoy ACV!
If you’re looking for even more ways to incorporate ACV into your daily routine, explore different recipes and usage ideas like salad dressings, cleaning solutions, and more! Remember, everyone’s body is unique, so find what suits your lifestyle and health goals best.
