Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may not sound as appealing as your morning flat white, but, according to social media and the influx of Google searches, there are a ton of health benefits that could make drinking a daily dose worth it.
You just have to ask Victoria Beckham, Kourtney Kardashian And Hailey Bieber, part of a growing list of apple cider vinegar acolytes who swear by the fermented beverage; or the TikTok world, where “apple cider vinegar” is now a ubiquitous term.
A trending topic in the world of wellness, apple cider vinegar among its many talents is touted for its ability to boost your metabolism and help digestion. But is he a catch-all health hero? And is it In fact Is it worth meditating?
Here, we explore the health benefits behind social media’s favorite buzzword; the most effective way to swallow it, and why so many of us turn to this natural remedy to support our gut health.
What is apple cider vinegar?
Once confined to salad dressings, this kitchen staple is getting a lot of attention lately. Of course, apple cider vinegar is nothing new; it existed long before the dawn of social media, but thanks to all those viral videos and a string of celebrity endorsements, it’s been thrust into the spotlight again, and more of us than ever are jumping on the vinegar bandwagon of apple cider.
Simply put, apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar created using a fermentation process that converts vinegar into a type of acetic acid. “Its traditional use is as a cleansing tonic to help stimulate digestion and improve metabolism, and while there isn’t much research on apple cider vinegar yet, the studies we do have show a variety advantages”, explains Rhian Stephensonnutritionist and founder of ARTAH.
What are the main benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar?
Although research is still in its infancy, there are a few compelling studies that support the notion of apple cider vinegar’s health benefits. “Several studies have shown that consuming apple cider vinegar helps reduce postprandial glucose levels,” says Stephenson. “Simply put, it can slow the rise in blood sugar after eating.” This can be beneficial for blood sugar management and food cravings.
He also made waves with his ability to support gut health; another favorite TikTok term. “Raw apple cider vinegar contains live bacterial cultures and has been shown to have a protective effect on the microbiome,” says Stephenson.
The key is to find “good quality” apple cider vinegar, which contains polyphenols; “plant compounds that may benefit gut health and immunity.” A good quality apple cider vinegar may also contain probiotics, which are also beneficial for the latter. However, Stephenson advises against relying solely on apple cider vinegar to boost your immunity. “A fresh apple will have a higher polyphenol content than apple cider vinegar, as well as other vitamins, minerals and fiber,” she says.
Can apple cider vinegar be drunk every day?
While it is safe to drink regularly, there are a few things to note. “In terms of safety, if you have an ulcer or are taking diuretics, you should be careful not to consume too much apple cider vinegar,” says Stephenson. Likewise, you should consult your doctor if you suffer from Chrohn’s disease or any serious digestive problem, as some experts warn against its use.
Another question also missing from the conversation on TikTok: how you should drink or consume it. And no, it’s not direct. “It’s really important to dilute it; If you drink it neat or undiluted, over time it may damage your tooth enamel,” Stephenson warns.
When is the best time to drink apple cider vinegar?
“If you’re using apple cider vinegar to treat digestion and blood sugar, take it 30 minutes before your meal,” says Stephenson. “Remember, however, that apple cider vinegar can also be beneficial during meals; I always add it to salad dressings and it is an essential ingredient in sauces, dips and salad dressings in our nutritional plans,” she adds.
Do Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies Really Work?
Those candies you saw on Instagram have become a point of contention, with naysayers deeming them futile. Stephenson says she hasn’t seen any indication that gum with added sugar, emulsifiers and preservatives would have the same effect as drinking apple cider vinegar. However, not all gummies are equal.
“I have also discovered that the ritual of drinking apple cider vinegar is extremely beneficial for people; they generally increase their water intake and generally become more mindful of what they put into their bodies. If you’re doing something very simple and effective every day, it’s easier to build on that momentum and add other beneficial foods, practices, or habits,” she says.
Finally, it’s important to remember that apple cider vinegar is not a miracle worker nor can it replace a healthy diet and lifestyle (hello eight hours of exercise). sleepreduction in alcohol consumption and less stress).
Although a handful of studies have accumulated in its favor and there are certainly benefits to consider, as Stephenson states, it is not the only solution. “Adding apple cider vinegar is a good way to include a functional food with proven health benefits in daily meal preparation, but I wouldn’t consider it a quick fix.”