Apple Cider Vinegar and how a daily dose could support your health!
In the realm of health elixirs, there's a humble kitchen staple that stands tall as a powerhouse of benefits: fermented apple cider vinegar (ACV) with the coveted "mother." As we explore its transformative properties, let's uncover how this golden elixir can enhance your health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on immunity, gut health, and blood sugar levels.
To harness the full spectrum of benefits, it's crucial to opt for a high-quality fermented apple cider vinegar that retains the mother. The "mother" is a web-like structure of proteins, enzymes, and beneficial bacteria that forms during the fermentation process. This living component is where the magic happens, delivering a potent dose of health-boosting properties. Brands that we like include Coral Tree, Braggs and Healtheries.
The acetic acid in fermented apple cider vinegar, fortified by the mother, possesses antimicrobial properties that support the immune system. Incorporating a daily ritual of sipping on a dash of fermented ACV diluted in warm water can be a simple yet effective step in fortifying your body's defences against various threats.
ACV could play a beneficial role in supporting our gut health. The acidic nature of ACV can support the breakdown of food in the stomach, promoting smoother digestion. Moreover, the live cultures from the mother act as prebiotics, nurturing the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A happy gut not only enhances digestion but also plays a pivotal role in overall wellbeing (including supporting our mental health) and immune function.
Continued research is positively supporting the use of ACV for blood sugar management. Studies suggest that its consumption may improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels, particularly after meals. For optimal results, consider incorporating ACV into your routine by mixing a tablespoon or two of high-quality fermented ACV with warm water 15-20minutes before meals.
It's important to emphasise the importance of moderation and quality. A well-crafted fermented apple cider vinegar, preferably organic and containing the mother, ensures you're reaping the full spectrum of benefits without compromising on quality. Diluting it in warm water not only enhances its palatability but also improves absorption.
ACV is vinegar; it is an acquired taste! Start with a dash first thing in the morning and progress if needed/wanted from there. For any queries on using ACV to support your hauora or specific health journey, or how you could utilise it as part of your daily routine please do get in touch.
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Hadi, A., Pourmasoumi, M., Najafgholizadeh, A., Clark, C. C. T., & Esmaillzadeh, A. (2021). The effect of apple cider vinegar on lipid profiles and glycemic parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. BMC complementary medicine and therapies, 21(1), 179. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-021-03351-w Xia, T., Kang, C., Qiang, X., Zhang, X., Li, S., Liang, K., Wang, Y., Wang, J., Cao, H., & Wang, M. (2023). Beneficial effect of vinegar consumption associated with regulating gut microbiome and metabolome. Current research in food science, 8, 100566. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crfs.2023.100566