5 Health and Beauty Benefits Using Apple Cider Vinegar

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You know that old saying, "An apple a day, keeps the doctor away."??? Well what about Apple Cider Vinegar? It's made from apple juice and is fermented to hard apple cider. It's then fermented a second time to apple cider vinegar. I've found hundreds of uses for this unbearably strong smelling vinegar on the internet and apparently a lot of them claim to be health related. Apple Cider Vinegar is a completely natural product. And I'm talking about the raw, organic, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (the cloudy stuff).  It has been used for over 10 thousand years for it's healing properties and to treat various aliments. According to several natural-health sources, ACV contains vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, beta-carotene, bioflavonoids, acetic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, enzymes, amino acids, potash, and apple pectin. It's no wonder people say it's good for you! It's packed with some healthy stuff!! Since I've got this HUGE interest in alternative medicine, I'd like to share with you a few things I have discovered (and might even try after I pop this baby out) about ACV and how it can benefit you health wise....

1. ACV as a weight-loss aid- Many claim that if you take 2 teaspoons of ACV in 8 ounces of water before each meal, it will help to control your appetite (causing you not to over eat) as well as increase your metabolism and help burn fat. You can add honey to this mixture for a better taste.

2. ACV boosts the immune system- Raw apple cider vinegar contains anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties that can work as immune protectors against a wide variety of germs. ACV also helps balance pH levels in the body and helps to maintain the body's natural alkaline state. When the body is alkaline, it is better equipped to ward off colds and other viruses that thrive in an acidic body. These viruses cannot develop and grow properly in a body that is alkaline because it is not the right type of environment for the germs to survive in. With all the natural vitamins and minerals it has, ACV has been labeled as a "favorite" in the alternative medicine world.

3. ACV improves digestion- With all the acids, vitamins, and minerals found in ACV, it is said that it works with your body's own stomach acids and digestive enzymes to promote good digestion. Acid reflux for example, is when you have too much acid in your digestive tract and it start promoting bacteria growth. Taking ACV (2 tsp with 8 oz water before a meal) is said to bond with this acidic bacteria and neutralize it, bringing the digestive tract back to an alkaline state.

4. ACV and healthy hair- Not only have many been using it as an alternative to commercial conditioners (such as myself), but many use it to treat hair problems. Regular use (once a week) will greatly improve your scalp, eliminating dandruff and slowing hair loss. It is has been said that it can be used to aid in the removal of LICE.

5. ACV and acne- I have not tried this (yet) but if you're prone to acne, using ACV as a nightly toner will apparently help clear it up. It works as a natural antibacterial and cleans up bad oils from the face. Dilute ACV with 2 parts water (I would suggest filtered or distilled, not tap.) and apply to skin using a cotton ball. It is also said to help heal acne scars and lighten age spots.

As with all supplements or dietary aides, it is best to talk with your healthcare provider before taking ACV. I have to say that by the way. I'm not a doctor but I know supplementing ACV is not for everyone. So please be cautious and know what you're doing. There is SO much more that you can use ACV for (not just health and beauty) and I will probably make another list again soon. But for now, I hope I have peaked some interest and curiosity in you as a reader. 

Do you think you could supplement ACV into YOUR diet???