What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been a tried, tested, and true folk remedy for centuries. Some people swear by its positive and broad spectrum of health effects. Made from apples in the process of fermentation by bacteria and yeast, the apples are first fermented into alcohol and then, left long enough, turn into vinegar. The word vinegar means sour wine… The end product contains primarily acetic acid. Although the USDA claims it has no vitamins and minerals, some say it has small amounts of amino acids, mineral salts, vitamins, and other acids. It is correct that it is a highly acidic liquid which may be the reason for its broad range of effects.

The challenge with ACV is that very little research has been done on human subjects. Most of its notoriety is simply from peoples’ experiences over the centuries. This is called empirical data because it is not research conducted as a double-blind placebo-based laboratory study. A few studies have been conducted on animals, but these studies have been limited. Despite the lack of formal research, people still claim organic apple cider vinegar has helped them with many health concerns.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar Used For?

Traditionally Apple Cider Vinegar has been used to treat just about everything…from Diabetes to high cholesterol to digestive complaints like acid reflux and weight loss.

Diabetes

Some formal research conducted on humans by the American Diabetes Foundation in 2004 tested Apple Cider Vinegar’s effects on type 2 diabetes. It showed that taking ACV before meals increased insulin sensitivity and lowered insulin and glucose spikes after meals. Another study conducted in 2007, quoted by WebMD, showed a 4-6 % decrease in morning fasting glucose in those who took 2 Tbsp of it before bed. These studies show promising results from using Apple Cider Vinegar in treating type 2 diabetes.

Cholesterol

Although people claim to have seen improvements in their cholesterol levels by taking Apple Cider Vinegar, no human trials have supported this. However, one study conducted in 2006 showed ACV decreased total cholesterol in one animal study. But again, many claim it helps reduce their LDL cholesterol.

Most people use Apple Cider Vinegar for healthy digestion and to help establish a neutral ph in their body.

ACV and Digestion

Furthermore, despite popular medical belief, acid reflux is more often caused by too low stomach acid, called hypochlorhydria. Increasing stomach acid by taking Apple Cider Vinegar will reduce symptoms of acid reflux because your food will be digesting properly with sufficient stomach acid.

Another benefit of this ‘acid tonic’ comes from normalizing stomach acid. As mentioned, normalizing stomach acid results in better digestion and absorption of minerals. This leads to an overall balance of ph in your body. A balance of ph is essential for numerous reasons. Your body needs to keep a narrow ph window, especially in the blood. When your body becomes acidic, your body uses Calcium from your bones to neutralize this acidity. This, over time, can lead to diseases like Osteoporosis. Your body operates ideally at a ph of 7, considered neutral. You can measure ph via saliva or urine using ph strips, readily found at health food stores.

So although your stomach needs to be acidic it is very important for optimal health that your body remains neutral ph.

How Does ACV Work Inside Your Body?

Theoretically, its claim to fame as a cure-all for so many symptoms could be related to the fact it is an ‘acidic tonic’ for your stomach. It contains acetic acid, lactic acid, citric and malic acids. How these acids benefit and work in your system is as follows:

  • Your stomach secretes acid to kill organisms and break down your food when you eat.
  • This acid also helps you absorb minerals and B12, which need an acidic environment for absorption.
  • Proper acid levels in your stomach are necessary to break down food properly. Without adequate breakdown, food can ferment, leading to gas formation, indigestion and the growth of Candida yeast and other organisms.

So Apple cider vinegar aids digestion by its nature as an ‘acid tonic’ for your stomach.

Apple Cider Vinegar FAQs

How to drink apple cider vinegar?

Simply mix 1-2 tablespoons of ACV into one cup of water and drink up. Diluting the ACV with water will protect your esophagus.

What does it do?

ACV acts as an "acid tonic" that aids in digestion. It may also support healthy blood sugar as well as cholesterol levels.

How much should I take?

Most people benefit from 1-2 tablespoons each day, taken before meals.

Where can I buy apple cider vinegar?

You can find it at most health food stores. It is also available in chewable apple cider gummies.

Is apple cider vinegar safe?

It is safe to take up to 2 tablespoons of ACV each day. However, if you are taking medication for heart disease or diabetes, you may want to discuss taking ACV with your doctor.