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Apple Cider Vinegar – What Not To Do!

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has become very popular lately. Before we take a look at the things you should never do when taking this remedy, first let us see what it is. ACV is a vinegar made from apples, sugar, and yeast. Thus, it is technically fermented apple juice and it can taste pretty awful. Nonetheless, many people in the health and wellness community claim that drinking this in the morning (diluted with water) can help boost the metabolism, aid in weight loss, and even treat or prevent certain ailments. In this article, we will take a look at what you should not do when drinking ACV. This is because it may be dangerous or unhealthy when taken the “wrong way”.

Do Not Drink It Clean

AVC is highly acidic. When taken just like that, you run the risk of causing damage or irritation in the throat and stomach areas. In addition to this, it can also damage the enamel on your teeth. Due to these reasons, it is always best to dilute ACV in a liquid. You could take 1 tablespoon of ACV with 8 oz. of water, for example. In this way, you will not only protect your throat, stomach, and teeth from the acid, it may also taste better.

When Should I Drink It?

To maximize the benefits of drinking ACV, it is best to take it on an empty stomach and preferably in the morning. It helps the body process food afterwards as it boosts the metabolism. However, drinking this just before going to bed is not a good idea. Why you would ask? This is because you will now be in a horizontal position and the ACV can move from the stomach back to the mouth. As a result, you could burn your esophagus. No matter when you take this, it is best to stay upright for about 30 minutes thereafter.

How Should I Drink It?

Due to the high acidity of this product, even when diluted, it is best to drink it through a straw. By sipping or drinking it fast, the ACV will still touch the teeth. In addition to this, it is best to start small. As a first time user, only drink a small amount in a day and gradually increase the amount over time until your body and taste buds are used to it. Just as a side note – do not inhale it. Due to the acidity, it can seriously harm the lungs and cause a lot of coughing. It is best to just drink it.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, it is safe to consume ACV when done in the correct way. By diluting it with water and drinking it through a straw, you will reduce the risk of harming your teeth enamel, throat, and stomach. Just remember to start small and work your way to the desired amount you wish to consume. Also remember that it is more beneficial when drinking it on an empty stomach, just as long as you do not lie down straight after drinking it. Stick to these useful tips to ensure the safe and effective use of this remedy.

3 Scientifically-Supported Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is a wonderful addition to the all-natural medicine cabinet. This is largely attributed to the tremendous health benefits this vinegar has to offer. It is, after all, one of the most popular vinegars among the health-conscious consumer. It is not just claimed to have great benefits for the physical body but science has begun to support the health statements argued by so many who use it.

From weight loss to reduced cholesterol to the management of diabetes and regulation of blood sugar levels, the benefits of this miracle vinegar cannot be ignored.

The love of Apple Cider Vinegar and use of it for healing is not a new concept. The ingredient has been around for decades and is often likened to an ancient folk remedy. It has featured in recipes and household applications across the globe for years. Such love and support for the ingredient is a testament to its quality.

So, let’s take a deep dive into the benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar and we guarantee that you will start stocking up on some of your own.

1. The Powerful Biological Effects of Acetic Acid

There are two steps used to produce Apple Cider Vinegar. This process is similar to the way in which alcohol is made. The first step involves combining Apple Cider (or crushed apples) to yeast. The yeast turns begins to ferment the sugar in the cider and this becomes alcohol. Then, specific bacteria is added to the alcohol to create acetic acid. Acetic acid forms the base of any vinegar.

The resulting acetic acid vinegar is packed with proteins, enzymes, and helpful bacteria. Furthermore, this solution contains a mere 3 calories per tablespoon. Not only this, but it contains amino acids and antioxidants. The supplementation of these beneficial substances through Apple Cider Vinegar can have influential biological effects. For example, the body’s natural immune system is supported and its ability to fight off harmful free radicals is improved.

2. Eliminates Toxins and Gets Rid of Bad Bacteria

Vinegar has long been used as an effective means to treat fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections to name a few. This is because it has disinfecting properties. The vinegar is able to eliminate pathogens and bad bacteria.

Vinegar has been used for thousands of years to clean wounds and has been used to preserve food as it prevents bacteria from growing.

3. Can Be Used to Manage Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that so many US citizens struggle with. The condition is caused when blood sugar levels soar because the body resists insulin or is not capable of producing it. People without diabetes also suffer from high blood pressure. Apple Cider Vinegar can be used to regulate blood sugar levels and manage diabetes.

How do you ask?

It decreases blood sugar and insulin responses to carb-heavy meals.
It improves insulin function after meals.
It has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels by 34% after consuming 50g of white bread.

There you have it, three benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar that are supported by scientific research. Now, go grab yourself a bottle of your own and reap the rewards.

The Link Between Erectile Dysfunction And Apple Cider Vinegar

As a frequently used condiment and a staple in most health enthusiasts’ pantries, apple cider vinegar is a delicious addition to many sauces, salads, and other recipes. Made through fermenting apples, by introducing yeast to the liquid, this vinegar has been a popular ingredient in many DIY treatments for many conditions. It has even been suggested that this condiment could assist with erectile dysfunction.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction

ED or erectile dysfunction, is also referred to as impotence, is a condition that leads to men being unable to get or maintain a firm enough erection to have sexual intercourse. ED is not rare, with many men experiencing sexual impotency for a variety of reasons.

There are many causes of this condition, ranging from psychological to physical. Some of the leading reasons men experience ED comprise cardiovascular disease, mental and emotional stress, alcohol and substance use, weight and even when they experience problems in their relationships.

Does Apple Cider Vinegar Actually Work?

While there may be proof supporting the treatment and management of some of the causes of ED, no conclusive evidence exists that suggests that apple cider vinegar can be used to cure impotency. Although, controlling weight, blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of heart disease with apple cider vinegar are all avenues that have been studied.

Because it is believed that apple cider vinegar can lower blood sugar levels, overall weight, and levels of cholesterol – men struggling with diabetes, obesity and heart conditions (which are leading causes of erectile dysfunction) could benefit from implementing this condiment into their diet.

This being said, there is not enough evidence to suggest that this vinegar actually effectively treats any of these conditions – a much deeper analysis of how ED and apple cider vinegar are linked is needed.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar

This healthy condiment can be utilized in several different ways. As a tangy addition to a dish or as a nutritional supplement.

To incorporate apple cider vinegar into your daily routine you can take a few teaspoons (not more than six as the acidity in the vinegar could lead to potentially harmful results) orally. Or incorporate this sharp ingredient into various different sauces, marinades and salad dressings to boost your intake through your diet.

Are There Any Negative Effects?

While apple cider vinegar is generally safe for use, there may be some related concerns. Because the acidity level (acetic acid) in apple cider vinegar is very high, it is always advisable to dilute it with water before drinking it – as ingesting in in its pure form may lead to burns, sores and eventual damage of your mouth, tongue, and throat. This vinegar may also make some types of medication less effective so it is important to determine whether you should be using it.

As with most natural solutions or home remedies, apple cider vinegar should not be used as a replacement for proven treatments of serious conditions such as diabetes, as it is not a medication. It is best practice to consult with your healthcare professional before opting to use this vinegar as an alternative treatment.

In Conclusion

While there is little evidence to back up claims that apple cider vinegar can help you with erectile dysfunction, it could prove beneficial, in general, to your overall health. As it is unlikely to pose any problems, this condiment could be used in addition to your health regime to combat some of the causes of your impotency.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Treat Stomach Bloating?

Bloating is a condition that makes your belly feel tight or blown up like a balloon. Some people have reported experiencing abdominal distention, which is the unusual protruding of the stomach, during bloating. Apple cider vinegar is made from the fermented juice from crushed apples. It contains vitamins B1, B2 and B6, as well as vitamin C. Many individuals use apple cider vinegar for cooking, but the primary use in medicine, as numerous health pundits claim that it can help you to improve blood sugar levels, provide relief from indigestion, decrease the risk of heart disease and cancer, as well as help with weight loss.

Bloating is synonymous with gas. Health experts have proven that several gastrointestinal can cause bloating. The most common cause of bloating is constipation. When a stool is blocked in the intestines, it ferments, causing the release of gases, which become trapped in the stomach and intestines, resulting in bloating.

What Are The Causes?

Apart from individuals who suffer from irritable bowel movement and stress of anxiety, gastroparesis is a digestive condition that can lead to bloating. Gastroparesis delays stomach emptying. When the stomach empties slower than usual, it can lead to nausea, constipation and bloating. The cure for bloating and gas in non-existent, but treatments can help control uncomfortable symptoms.

Who Does It Affect?

Research has proven that the sensitivity to abdominal gas varies in individuals. Persons with irritable bowel movement and stress or anxiety are especially sensitive to bloating, meaning they are more prone to experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of bloating and abdominal distension, although they may not have large amounts of gas.

What Role Does Apple Cider Vinegar Play?

Numerous individuals have used apple cider vinegar for years as a treatment for bloating and gas. Scientific evidence to support its use does not exist, but anecdotal reports suggest that apple cider vinegar is effective.

Individuals who have low stomach acid may experience bloating due to bacteria buildup in the stomach. That happens when food does not break down. Apple cider vinegar may increase stomach acid and is antimicrobial naturally.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar With A Healthy Diet

Some individuals drink apple cider vinegar alone while others mix it with water or other liquids. To get the best results, you should consume one to two tablespoons daily. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to one cup of steaming water; add one teaspoon of lemon juice for added digestive benefits. Add apple cider vinegar to a smoothie. The other option is to add apple cider vinegar to a salad; it makes an excellent salad dressing. Try an organic apple cider vinegar shot from your local grocer.

Smaller Portions

Most foods that cause gas are part of a healthy diet. Eat smaller portions of problem foods to determine if your body can handle a smaller portion without excess gas.

Eat Slowly

Health experts advise you to eat slowly, not to gulp and chew your food thoroughly. If you rush during your meal, put down your fork between each bite.

Avoid Chewing Gum

Do not suck on hard candies, drink through a straw, chew gum as these activities may result in swallowing more air.

Check Your Dentures

Badly fitting dentures can result in swallowing excess air while eating and drinking.

Stop Smoking

Smoking cigarettes may increase the amount of air that you swallow.

Exercise

Physical activity may move gas through the digestive tract.

Apple Cider Vinegar as a Treatment for Acid Reflux

Apple cider vinegar is made similarly to apple juice by crushing fresh apples. The difference is that ingredients like bacteria and yeast are added to the apple juice so that it ferments to form a vinegar. The longer it is left the more of the alcohol produced by initial fermentation is converted to vinegar by a secondary fermentation. So for a natural apple cider vinegar, it takes quite a while for the product to develop properly. The end result is a brown, sometimes cloudy liquid.

How does it work?

There are two types of apple cider vinegar. There is a raw, organic form which contains some of the remaining solids from the apple, and there is an inorganic form which has been pasteurized and the pulp removed. The remaining solids contain a lot of nutrients and proteins that are more helpful against acid reflux then the non-organic form. Both forms contain a compound called ethanoic acid. There isn’t match research into how it works but there are two current theories. One theory is that the muscular ring at the top of the stomach that is responsible for keeping the acid inside relaxes when too little stomach acid is produced. When there is some stomach acid it is then refluxed. So ethanoic acid in the vinegar helps to close this muscular ring. Another theory is that because ethanoic acid is a much weaker acid than the acid that the stomach produces, it helps to neutralize it somewhat.

How do you take it?

It is best to dilute the vinegar in water when taking it to reduce any adverse sensations caused by the vinegar and the strong taste. Natural sweeteners such as honey can be added to reduce the taste also. It is also more effective to take the solution through a straw so that it does not deposit on the teeth. The current recommended dosage is 15 to 30 ml (0.5 to 1 fl oz) of apple cider vinegar mixed with 200 ml (about 7 fl oz) of water. The solution can be taken once a day.

Are there any side effects?

There are some side effects associated with taking daily apple cider vinegar. If you don’t use a straw then the acid can cause cavities in the teeth. Even if the straw is used then the acid is still able to irritate the throat though. All sorts vinegar are able to thin the blood which increases the risk of bleeding but also decreases the risk of a stroke or heart attack. And the last side effect which can be very serious if it becomes severe is a reduction in body potassium. If you have any chronic conditions or are pregnant it is obviously best to consult a doctor before trying this.

Conclusion

Currently, the evidence is not particularly strong for the use of apple cider vinegar as a treatment for acid reflux, but there is a lot of anecdotal evidence and a bit of science behind it. There really isn’t much harm in trying it, especially since it does have other scientifically proven health benefits.

5 Signs You’re Consuming Too Much Apple Cider Vinegar

Everything in moderation, right? Apple Cider Vinegar is no exception. While it hosts a number of health benefits, too much of it can have some worrying effects. Be sure to be on the lookout for any of these signs that you are consuming too much Apple Cider Vinegar!

1. Bloated Belly

A key role that Apple Cider Vinegar plays in the body is reducing how fast food leaves the stomach and passes to the digestive tract. In doing so, it reduces the frequency of blood sugar spikes which can leave you feeling lethargic and drained. While this may seem great, it can pose some problems.

Gastroparesis is a condition that many people with type 1 diabetes suffer from. This condition causes the nerves to be impaired which leads to the slower emptying of the stomach. This, coupled with excessive amounts of Apple Cider Vinegar, can lead to bloating, nausea, and heartburn.

2. Digestive Troubles

Acetic Acid, the main compound in vinegar has been known to suppress appetite, increase satiety, and reduce weight because of lowered calorie intake. That said, Apple Cider Vinegar may not cause positive reactions in everybody. A common side effect of consuming too much of it is intense spells of nausea. This can lead to feelings of illness and lethargy. The main reason for this is that stomachs may be sensitive to potent concentrations and high quantities of Apple Cider Vinegar.

3. Deteriorating Bones

Cases have surfaced making claims that Apple Cider Vinegar effects blood potassium levels and bone health. In a study, a women consumed it daily for a lengthy period of time. She was eventually admitted to hospital because she suffered from extremely abnormal blood potassium levels. The woman was also diagnosed with osteoporosis. This is a condition whereby the bones are too weak and brittle. The doctors that worked with her report that it may have been the high acidity of Apple Cider Vinegar which caused minerals to be taken from her bones to supplement other areas of the body. Excessively high acid levels are also argued to prevent the healthy development of bone.

4. Burning Sensations

Apple Cider Vinegar has been reported to cause severe throat burns. Many researchers argue that this extremely potent caustic substance should be locked away from children as it can damage their organs. The high acidity of this substance is also a contributor to skin burns. While it can be applied to warts, as it is an effective bacterial killer, it may not be beneficial for sensitive skin. This is because it eats away at the skin and toxins that are trapped underneath layers.

5. Decaying Teeth

The extreme acidity content of Apple Cider Vinegar is also said to cause excessive damage to the teeth. The Acetic Acid found within the vinegar eats away at the enamel of the teeth. Many reports have surfaced to support this argument. In one case, vinegar lead to a 20% loss of minerals after four hours of being covered.

The Ways That Apple Cider Vinegar Can Assist With Weight Loss

This fruity golden liquid has been used for thousands of years and can still be found in many people’s pantries today. Apple cider vinegar is getting a lot of attention recently for its many health benefits and is an important ingredient that should not be ignored. However, what most people don’t realize is that this dressing can be added to your diet to help you lose weight.

What Is It?

Apple cider vinegar is a fermented byproduct of a two-step process. The first step is where crushed apples are combined with yeast to convert the sugar into alcohol. Then, bacteria is added to transform the alcohol into acetic acid – which is this liquids key compound for promoting weight loss.

How Acetic Acid Supports Weight Loss

Acetic acid is a short chain of fatty acids that has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also responsible for giving vinegar its signature sour taste. It supports weight loss in the following ways by:

Decreasing blood-sugar levels.
Decreasing insulin levels
Regulating metabolism.
Reducing the rate at which fat is stored in the body.
Supporting the body’s fat burning capacity.
Reducing appetite.

However, these insights were gained from animal studies and still need to be thoroughly tested with a human test group to confirm these beneficial effects.

Increased Fullness; Decreased Calories

By increasing the feeling of fullness, as acetic acid was theorized to support, the body will naturally take in fewer calories which would support weight loss. Over and above apple ciders ability to reduce appetite, it is now known that it slows down the gastric rate too – which is the rate at which the stomach empties. In doing so, it promotes feelings of fullness which then encourages one to eat less.

However, this may cause complications with those suffering from Gastroparesis by worsening the effects of the condition.

Lose Body Fat

A tablespoon (or two) of apple cider vinegar a day will keep the excess weight at bay. After a rather large Japanese study, which carried out for 12 weeks, showed a positive correlation between consuming 15 – 30 ml of apple cider vinegar and weight loss as well as a decrease in body fat percentage. The study was carried out with obese individuals who were also told to restrict their alcohol intake. Although the results of this study are encouraging, additional studies will be needed to further prove these benefits.

Many Benefits

While the support for the weight loss benefits of apple cider begin to pile up, bear in mind that this acidic beverage also offers a range of other wonderful benefits; a few of which include:

A reduction in cholesterol levels.
The killing of harmful bacteria like E.coli
Preventing infections like Candida
It inhibits tumor growth.
Reducing the severity of heartburn and acid reflux.
Preventing kidney stones and urinary tract infections from forming.

However beneficial apple cider vinegar may be, ensure that you consume it within reason as too much may result in adverse side effects.

Is ACV Helpful for UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in the urinary system area, which includes the ureters, urethra, bladder and kidneys. UTIs mostly affect the urethra and the bladder. It can cause annoying and painful urinary symptoms and are typically treated by some form of antibiotics, as bacteria mostly tends to cause the infection.

More On Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has treated many conditions throughout the years and is believed by some to cure many diseases and ailments. But many of these claims lack scientific support and might be a bit exaggerated. Promising results have been shown in the treatment and management of diabetes as well as weight loss support in rats, but in other areas the research about the medicinal value of apple cider vinegar is limited. Even though there is no evidence that suggests that apple cider vinegar can treat urinary tract infections, it might still offer some benefits.

Apple cider vinegar can be used as health remedies in the following ways:

Mix Cranberry Juice And Apple Cider Vinegar

Unfiltered, raw apple cider vinegar can be added to fresh cranberry juice for a natural and common treatment for urinary tract infection. Even though it might not cure or treat the infection, it may have an effect in preventing infections especially for women who frequently suffer from recurring infections.

Add It To Water

One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar can be added to a glass of water several times per day. This will assist your body with naturally flushing out any harmful bacteria residing in the body.

Drizzle It Over Your Salad

For a delicious salad dressing, apple cider vinegar can be mixed with olive oil. If you like your dressings sweet, one teaspoon of honey can be added.

Make Yourself Some Herbal Tea

You can add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your choice of herbal tea. Try a cinnamon spiced tea with a splash of honey for a taste that would be much easier to tolerate.

Potential Complications And Risks

Your skin can easily be irritated by apple cider vinegar as it is highly acidic. It should, therefore, never be applied directly to your skin. It should always be diluted first.

See Your Doctor

If you notice any of the following symptoms of a urinary tract infection, you should consult your doctor: a persistent, intense urge to urinate, urine which is accompanied with burning sensations, cloudy urine with a strong smell and brownish, pink or red urine.

Luckily, these types of infections can easily be treated with medication. Some of these prescribed medications can even numb the uncomfortable sensations experienced while urinating. If these infections are left untreated it can lead to more serious complications such as sepsis, kidney damage or recurrent infections.

The Bottom Line

Even though apple cider vinegar does offer a lot of health benefits, it is definitely not a cure for urinary tract infections. Make sure to make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms as the proper medication will provide relief after one or two days.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Eliminate Headaches?

Apple cider vinegar has been known for a long time as a super healthy food because it has been scientifically shown to produce a variety of health benefits. Just some of the health benefits include:

Reduced blood sugar
Reduced blood pressure
Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
Increased insulin sensitivity

It is also packed with nutrients antioxidants and all sorts of other helpful nutrients.

So with all these health benefits, how could it not help in some way or another with headaches and migraines? Well, that is what is going to be explored in this article.

How can apple cider vinegar help headaches?

At this time there isn’t much research into the effect of apple cider vinegar on headaches and migraines, and there is no definitive scientific evidence yet but many people have reported apple cider vinegar as being useful against headaches and migraines. There are a number of theories about how it works. The leading theory is that because of the various health benefits it produces, it contributes in many ways. For example, by reducing blood pressure, it can increase blood flow to the brain (when there is high pressure in the blood vessels there is a reduction in flow, due to fluid mechanics). Another way is that it provides larger amounts of potassium to the brain which has a role in its electrical activity. The electrical activity of the brain has been implicated in headaches and migraines.

Different remedies

One of the most common remedies is a mixture of the apple cider vinegar and honey. 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with one teaspoon of honey all diluted in 8 ounces of water can be taken once a day to reduce headaches.

Another option is to soak a washcloth in cold apple cider vinegar for a few minutes, ring it out and place it over the forehead. The cold temperature helps to reduce pressure in the head and the apple cider vinegar may be absorbed into the blood vessels in the head or inhaled which helps to reduce a headache as well.

Apple cider vinegar can also be inhaled directly by mixing 1/4 cup of it with two cups of water and heating the mixture. Then breathe in the vapor. This is best done to relieve sinus headaches.

Other things to consider

There are a number of other interventions that can be taken along with using apple cider vinegar to reduce headaches. The most effective way is to deal with the cause of a headache. Headaches can be caused by dehydration, lack of sleep, or too much stress, just to name a few. So it would help to make sure to get enough water and enough sleep as well as reducing stress along with taking the apple cider vinegar to get the best benefits. Apple cider vinegar is also not a replacement for medical therapy in severe cases, so consult a doctor if the symptoms persist for a long time and are very severe.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar a Cure for Acne?

Apple cider vinegar has become really popular because of its variety of uses and benefits in the community of natural health. Many people believe that it has a lot of health benefits which includes weight loss, lower risk of cancer, and reduced blood sugar levels. Some people even believe that it might cure or benefit acne. In this article, we provide more information on whether this really is the case.

Apple Cider Vinegar Might Kill Bacteria That Causes Acne

It is a known fact that vinegar can destroy different types of viruses and bacteria. Research shows that it can reduce the amount of some viruses and certain bacteria by between 90 and 95%. P.acnes (a type of bacteria) is known to contribute largely to acne and its development. It has been shown that succinic, lactic, citric and acetic acid (which is contained in apple cider vinegar) can kill P. acnes. One study was conducted where a group of people applied a lotion which contained lactic acid to their faces two times a day for 365 days. Only two people found that their acne improved by less than 50%. Most people in the group experienced a remarkable reduction in acne.

It Reduces The Appearance Of Scarring

After acne has been healed, it can still cause scarring and discoloration. Some of the acids found in apple cider vinegar can assist with this when directly applied to the skin. This process is sometimes referred to as chemical peeling. The acids tend to remove the outer layers of the skin which have been damaged and it then boosts regeneration.

It Can Burn Your Skin

Apple cider vinegar may burn your skin when it makes direct contact with it, as it is very acidic. This mostly occurs with longer periods of skin contact. It should, therefore, be diluted with water and used in small amounts to prevent burns and skin damage. It should also not be used on open wounds or sensitive skin. If you experience a burning sensation when applying it to your skin, either dilute it more or stop using it altogether.

Directions For Use

Because of apple cider vinegar’s high acidity, it should always be diluted before applying it to your skin. Here are steps that you can follow:

Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water.
Cleanse and dry your face.
Use a cotton pad or ball to apply the solution to your skin.
Rinse after 10-20 seconds.
Repeat this process about once or twice a day.

The Bottom Line

The organic acids contained in apple cider vinegar may help to kill certain bacterias that tend to cause acne. It may also reduce the appearance of discoloration and scars.

It should be used with caution, however, as it can cause burns and damage, especially when applied to open wounds or sensitive skin.

This might mean that apple cider vinegar might not work for everyone.