The benefits and harms of apple cider vinegar for the human body
Content
Composition of apple cider vinegar
Natural apple cider vinegar contains virtually all the vitamins and beneficial elements found in fresh apples. Specifically:
- potassium;
- magnesium;
- sodium;
- calcium;
- phosphorus;
- manganese;
- iron;
- copper;
- sulfur;
- zinc;
- acids: malic, ascorbic, citric, lactic, propanoic;
- vitamins: A, B, C, E, P, beta-carotene;
- amino acids;
- enzymes;
- tannins.
Caloric content of 100 g of product is 21 kcal.
Health benefits of apple cider vinegar
Thanks to its unique chemical composition, apple cider vinegar has many beneficial properties:
- the breakdown of complex carbohydrates and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which plays an important role in the process weight loss;
- treatment of viral respiratory diseases and colds;
- increasing the tone of the walls of blood vessels;
- reducing blood clotting, stimulating the formation of red blood cells;
- stabilization of high blood pressure;
- provision of vital energy;
- treatment of heavy menstruation, prevention of blood loss;
- normalization of the nervous system, elimination of sleep disorders;
- relief of the effects of food poisoning;
- regulation of the cardiovascular system;
- stimulation of regenerative processes;
- strengthening of ligaments, teeth, and skeletal system;
- lowering blood cholesterol levels;
- prevention of heart attacks;
- blocking the development of pathogenic microorganisms (fungi, bacteria);
- antioxidant effect;
- treatment of skin diseases, as well as burns I and II degrees;
- decrease in body temperature;
- elimination of joint pain.
The film that forms on the surface of the vinegar has an anthelmintic effect.
Harm and contraindications
Before using apple cider vinegar, you should be aware of the possible side effects:
- destruction of tooth enamel;
- leaching of calcium from the body;
- irritation of the gastric and laryngeal mucosa;
- interaction with certain medications that negatively impact the general condition of the body.
Also, don’t forget about a number of contraindications for this product:
- pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract associated with increased acidity:
- colitis;
- gastritis;
- reflux esophagitis;
- preulcer condition, gastric ulcer;
- renal and hepatic failure;
- pancreatitis.
Drinking apple cider vinegar increases urine output significantly.
Apple cider vinegar treatment
The product's high content of vitamins, beneficial microelements, and amino acids accounts for its therapeutic, restorative, and tonic properties. However, before beginning treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Ignoring this advice can lead to serious complications. Treatment with apple cider vinegar requires adherence to all instructions and dosages specified in the recipes.
Rules of use
The dosage and recommended use depend directly on the problem being addressed. However, it's important to remember that consuming apple cider vinegar in its pure form is unacceptable, as it can cause food poisoning. It must be diluted with water before use.
How to drink apple cider vinegar for weight loss
The vinegar diet has several benefits:
- getting rid of several kilograms in a short time;
- stimulation of metabolic processes.
With water
To make the drink, dilute 1 teaspoon of vinegar in 250 ml of water. The recommended dosage is 2-3 times a day between meals.
With honey
Admission rules:
- Dilute 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
- Sweeten with a small amount of liquid honey.
- Drink the prepared remedy daily in the morning, half an hour before your first meal. This helps suppress hunger.
The first results of the vinegar diet can be observed after 30 days, and ideally – after 6 months.
Benefits for external use
Apple cider vinegar is a popular folk remedy. It can be used both internally and externally.
When losing weight
Get rid of excess weight Apple cider vinegar can be used not only internally. There are several ways to apply it externally. Namely:
- taking baths with the addition of this product (recommended concentration: 250 ml per half-filled bath);
- Vinegar wraps – the procedure initiates metabolic processes that promote a gradual reduction in body fat;
- cleansing enemas - to prepare a solution in 1 liter of warm water (not higher than 40 °C) 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar;
- Rubbing the skin – the procedure is recommended after taking a shower or bath, duration – 10–15 minutes.
In the fight against cellulite
The recipe calls for a vinegar wrap or compress. These treatments promote the gradual resolution of subcutaneous lesions and eliminate the "orange peel" appearance. Regular use of apple-based products helps achieve smooth and elastic skin.
For varicose veins
There are two ways to treat this disease:
- applying vinegar to the area of varicose veins followed by massage;
- Taking vinegar foot baths.
For facial and body skin care
Compresses made from 100 ml of water and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar can help eliminate various skin rashes and other blemishes. For a healing bath, add half of this product to the water. The procedure lasts 20–30 minutes, repeating as often as necessary until the skin is completely clear.
For hair restoration
Vinegar essence is excellent for treating hair loss, dandruff, and scalp tightness and itching. To prepare the remedy, dissolve 2 tablespoons of vinegar in 1 liter of water. To achieve shiny hair, add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
For foot care
Apple cider vinegar is widely used to treat sweaty feet and nail fungus. To prepare a healing foot bath, mix the product with warm water in a 1:3 ratio.
For the oral cavity
Bad breath is caused by a buildup of harmful bacteria. Regularly rinsing with apple essence can help solve this problem. Afterward, rinse your mouth with clean water.
How to choose the right apple cider vinegar
A natural apple product must be manufactured in accordance with GOST 32097-2013 and meet several criteria:
- no acetic acid, dyes or flavorings;
- slight turbidity and the presence of a small amount of sediment, indicating the presence of pectin substances.
An overly pronounced fruity aroma and bright color are signs of counterfeit apple essence.
How to make apple cider vinegar at home
To obtain the product yourself you will need:
- 2 kg of sweet apples;
- 100 g of sugar.
Cooking algorithm:
- Rinse the fruits thoroughly under running water.
- Cut into small pieces or grate.
- Place the mixture in a saucepan and cover with hot water.
- Leave the container in a dark and warm place.
- Stir the apple mixture periodically.
- After 2 weeks, filter the mixture through several layers of gauze and pour it into a new sterilized container, then place it in a warm place for another 14 days.
- Pour the finished product into glass bottles, without filling to the brim, seal and store.
Apple cider vinegar is a healthy product, regular consumption of which normalizes the functioning of internal organs and prevents the development of many diseases.