Apple cider vinegar is a staple in many kitchens. It’s makes a tasty salad dressing and dipping sauce; however, it has more to offer than just a great taste. Apple cider vinegar (commonly referred to as ACV) has become the go-to homeopathic cure-all for a range of medical ailments, such as indigestion and yeast infections. It is also commonly used for personal care reasons, including weight loss and teeth whitening.
What’s apple cider vinegar’s secret? It lies in the Acetic acid, an element that ACV is rich in. Acetic acid is a bacterium that is produced during the process of fermentation. ACV starts out as crushed apples. Once the apples are crushed into liquid and yeast and bacteria are added. This activates the initial fermentation process, which transforms the liquid of the crushed apples into alcohol. Once the first process is complete, a second one takes place, during which the alcohol is turned into vinegar, thanks to the formation of Acetic acid.
It is the Acetic acid that gives apple cider vinegar a myriad of benefits. In order to reap the benefits that ACV offers, it is important to purchase apple cider vinegar in the raw, as this variety contains “mother”, the Acetic acid bacteria that is produced during fermentation. The “mother” contains a enzymes, trace minerals and pectin, and is the source of the majority of the benefits that ACV provides.
What type of benefits does apple cider vinegar provide? Here’s a look at 19 reasons why you should consider using it.
1. ACV can relieve heartburn and acid reflux
Two of the primary causes of heartburn and acid reflux are an improper balance in the pH of the stomach, as well as a lack of probiotics and enzymes. Raw apple cider vinegar is loaded with these nutrients, and as a result, it can help to ease the burning sensation in the chest that is caused by heartburn and acid reflux. If you suffer from heartburn and indigestion, try adding 1 tablespoon of raw ACV to a cup of lukewarm water and drink the mixture down before eating. Doing so can help to prevent the onset of heartburn and indigestion.
