What is the Nutritional Value of ACV?

Apple cider vinegar is made from apples, yeast, and sugar through a process that ferments the sugar in apples, turning it into acetic acid.

You can typically find two types of apple cider vinegar on the market.

The first is known as filtered apple cider vinegar, which has a clear appearance. The second is known as ‘mother’, which is an unfiltered vinegar, rich in enzymes and proteins with a cloudy appearance.

Apple Cider Vinegar Nutrients

When discussing the nutritional value of apple cider vinegar, it should be noted that there aren’t many minerals or vitamins contained in this ingredient apart from trace amounts of copper, magnesium, and potassium. This being said, apple cider vinegar does contain antioxidants and amino acids.

There is still a lot of research that needs to be done on whether the unfiltered (mother) variety of apple cider vinegar is better than the filtered brands.

Apple Cider Vinegar Usage

Apple cider vinegar can be incorporated into your daily regime in many different ways.

It can be used in cooking, as a salad dressing or marinade. Or you could drink it as a health supplement.

However, this vinegar has a high acidity level, which means that you should not drink it in its pure form. To consume this vinegar safely, it is advised that you should dilute it with water first.

The general rule of thumb for apple cider vinegar to water ratio is one or two teaspoons to one glass of water.

Apple Cider Vinegar And Weight-Loss

The weight-loss effects of apple cider vinegar are widely debated, with mixed results dividing the healthcare industry.

Apart from its impact on blood sugar levels, some studies have suggested that apple cider vinegar could promote satiety (feeling of fullness), which prevents you from overeating.

Another study found that the acetic acid, in apple cider vinegar, could assist obese individuals with decreasing their body mass and visceral fat.

This being said, there is still not enough conclusive evidence to confidently back these claims.

Apple Cider Vinegar And Blood Sugar

Many studies have investigated the effects of apple cider vinegar on insulin sensitivity, with evidence pointing to its ability to decrease blood sugar levels – through the consumption of small quantities.

Apple Cider Vinegar And Heartburn

Many people question whether apple cider vinegar can, in fact, prevent heartburn. With little evidence backing this, it is believed that it could help decrease the symptoms of heartburn, provided that the individual does not have high levels of stomach acid.

If you have high stomach acid, apple cider vinegar could worsen your symptoms.

Apple Cider Vinegar And Cholesterol

While it is believed that apple cider vinegar could assist in managing cholesterol levels, the only evidence that exists is based on animal studies – in which the antioxidant chlorogenic acid was found to affect cholesterol.

Apple Cider Vinegar Risks

Apple cider vinegar is a home remedy, not a medication.

As such there are no official or clinically proven recommendations for usage.

It should also be noted that there is not enough research on the long-term effects of consuming large amounts of apple cider vinegar.

The risks associated with the use of apple cider vinegar are double-edged swords. While it could decrease blood sugar and potassium levels, it should not be used if you are on diuretic medication for the same reason.

For individuals with gastroparesis, apple cider vinegar should be avoided as it could worsen the associated symptoms of this condition.

The acidity in apple cider vinegar could also eat at the enamel on your teeth, and may lead to damage of the esophagus if not consumed in a diluted form.

Before you start using apple cider vinegar it is advisable to consult your doctor, to ensure safe use.