The Ultimate Guide to Apple Cider & Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits, Uses, and More
Time to read 9 min
Time to read 9 min
Do you like exploring natural health solutions? Apple cider vinegar or ACV carries a long history of use with several evidence supporting its existence in ancient civilizations for different purposes, but more research is needed to fully understand its benefits. It has been used as a natural home remedy for many ailments, including skin conditions, digestive issues, and various infections. Modern research is also making use of ACV’s potential health benefits for weight loss, heart health, and blood sugar management.
Apple cider vinegar is a kitchen ingredient that has been used as a folk remedy for so long. It comprises bacteri-destroying acetic acid, probiotics, and antioxidants. Some studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may help with weight loss efforts and manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Apple cider and apple cider vinegar are apple derivatives, but two different food ingredients. Apple cider is a beverage prepared from fermented apple juice, usually it's alcoholic or little alcoholic. On the other hand, apple cider vinegar is prepared from fermented apple cider containing high levels of acetic acid, making it taste sour and smell pungent.
Recently, there has been renewed interest in natural health and the potent properties of these apple derivatives. These days, people are preferring natural health practices, and the use of ACV as a weight loss aid is one of them. Apple cider vinegar has been used for different purposes, and recent research has also found potential benefits.
In this blog, you will discover the ACV benefits, how you should use it, and everything you should know about apple cider vinegar, so keep reading.
So, before we get into the benefits and uses of ACV, first let's dive into the difference between apple cider and apple cider vinegar.
Apple cider is an unfiltered and unsweetened non-alcoholic beverage prepared from apples. It can also be the alcoholic beverage prepared from fermented apple juice called hard cider. In some countries, the term apple cider is used for the fresh apple cider that is unfiltered and unpasteurized apple juice.
Apple cider vinegar is an apple derivative. This type of vinegar is prepared with crushed fermented apples, sugar, and yeast. It is a significant food ingredient used in pickles, salad dressings, and marinades. People have been using ACV as a home remedy for years to prevent heartburn, fight germs, and so much more.
Some recent research has shown that ACV may have some considerable health benefits, such as aiding weight loss and managing blood sugar levels. Generally, apple cider vinegar is harmless as long as you use it appropriately to lower blood sugar. It contains the same nutrients as normal apple juice, such as B vitamins and antioxidants.
The apple cider vinegar with the mother is the most common and best type of ACV. Both the fresh and the vinegared form of ACV have several culinary uses. It can be used to enhance the flavor of sweet and savory dishes and as a pickling agent. ACV is a versatile ingredient that is commonly used in marinades, salad dressings, and sauces due to its tangy flavor and meat tenderizing properties.
Apple cider and ACV are two different products with different properties derived from apples through different production methods. Let's understand the difference.
Apple Cider |
Apple Cider Vinegar |
No fermentation |
First alcoholic and second acetic acid |
Sweet and tangy taste |
Sour and acidic taste |
Cloudy appearance |
Appearance varies with the mother sediment. |
Primarily used as a beverage. |
Used in culinary, home remedies, and health supplements. |
Apple cider vinegar offers incredible health benefits beyond its use in the kitchen as a food ingredient. Let's check out.
Your Wellness Ally: If you consume apple cider vinegar daily, it offers many health benefits for gut health, weight management, and blood sugar regulation. It can potentially improve heart health and aid in combating harmful bacteria, due to its antibacterial properties, and even increase energy levels.
ACV provides relief from indigestion and bloating, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. The mother of unfiltered ACV comprises probiotics that can increase a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
ACV supports stable blood glucose, improving insulin sensitivity. It improves blood sugar levels by slowing down carbohydrate absorption, which is useful particularly for type 2 diabetes.
Apple cider vinegar promotes satiety and reduces calorie intake, improving metabolism and reducing calorie intake. Thus, it indirectly contributes to weight loss.
ACV can be used as a natural skin toner and acne remedy as it can restore pH balance, promoting clearer skin with the help of natural bacteria. It can also help with dandruff and can serve as a hair rinse, promoting shiny hair. Apple cider vinegar for skin and hair works wonderfully, making it a great addition to your hair and skin care.
The probiotic content, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of ACV support the immune system. It can be a significant addition to a healthy lifestyle, boosting immunity.
Wondering how to use apple cider vinegar, including drinking apple cider vinegar, to get its benefits and make the most of its use? Stay tuned.
Typically, the recommended safe oral dose of apple cider vinegar is 2 tablespoons daily, diluted in a glass of water, which is approximately eight ounces. The best way to begin is to use a smaller amount and then increase it gradually. Consuming ACV before meals can help regulate appetite. Observe your body and adjust the dosage and frequency of consuming ACV depending on your particular tolerance.
Drinking ACV undiluted can be harmful. After consuming ACV, you can rinse your mouth with water to minimize the potential tooth damage.
You can simply consume ACV by mixing it with water, lemon, ginger, and honey. Transform ordinary salads with ACV dressings. Make flavorful sauces and marinades. Add ACV to juices and smoothies to get its benefits.
You can get the amazing benefits of ACV not just by oral consumption but also by using it as a DIY skin toner and facial wash. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar to get a healthy scalp and shiny hair. Soak your feet in water and mix some amount of ACV to get rid of fungus and odor. You can use it as a natural household cleaner and odor neutralizer.
The exact dosage and how much ACV is right for you depends on your particular health condition, body tolerance, and health goals. Consume ACV in moderation, as overconsumption can cause side effects such as tooth enamel erosion and nausea. ACV can interact with certain medicines, so it's better to consult a doctor before consuming it, especially if you are suffering from any health condition.
Inappropriate use may lead to potential side effects. Be aware of the potential side effects and precautions as mentioned below:
When to consult your doctor: Is apple cider vinegar safe? The best way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your lifestyle and to ensure its safety is to first talk to your doctor. Especially if you are suffering from any medical condition or you are taking any medications, seek your doctor’s professional advice to make the most of ACV use and avoid possible apple cider vinegar side effects.
While choosing apple cider, look for freshness and pasteurization status, and prefer refrigeration. The mother is non-negotiable, so prioritize buying raw, unfiltered, and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar. Prefer buying the products with organic certification and packed in dark glass bottles. Look for organic apple cider vinegar, and do your research to find the best apple cider vinegar brand while choosing ACV.
Drinking it straight or too much can irritate your oesophagus due to its high acid content. It is not recommended to drink undiluted ACV.
The time ACV takes to show results depends on the individual factors and desired effects; however, generally, it takes several weeks to a few months of consistent use to experience visible results. ACV can reduce bloating and improve digestion within a few days; on the other hand, weight loss may take a few months.
Studies found that combining apple cider vinegar consumption with a healthy diet and regular exercise can promote healthy weight loss.
Generally, it is advised to take ACV before meals in the morning or on an empty stomach, ideally mixed with warm water. Consuming it before bed can ease digestive issues.
ACV should be avoided if you have gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease, low potassium levels, or diabetes. Pregnant and breastfeeding females and people with sensitive teeth are advised to use it with caution under the guidance of a medical professional.
Look for a cloudy, sediment-like substance at the bottom of the ACV bottle. This substance is “the mother,” a collection of healthy bacteria and enzymes naturally released during the fermentation process.
Recently, apple cider vinegar has been recognised for its potential health benefits, such as improving digestion, supporting the immune system, managing total cholesterol, and aiding weight loss. ACV is a versatile apple derivative that can be added to your diet in many different ways, as highlighted in a systematic review of its benefits. Generally, ACV is considered safe when consumed cautiously in moderation, and it can be a significant natural approach to improve overall well-being; however, some health claims are still under investigation.
Wrapping up apple cider vinegar benefits, it’s not a standalone cure but offers complete natural wellness. It can offer many health benefits and can be used as a significant natural remedy, but you can not completely rely on this ingredient to treat any health condition. Make sure you use it responsibly and appropriately to avoid experiencing possible side effects. Consult a registered dietitian or a healthcare professional to ensure proper use of ACV and maximize its benefits. Start consuming ACV in smaller amounts to experience the benefits, as many people swear by its effects, and share your experiences in the comment box.
***Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only. Any information provided on this website, including text, images, and graphics, is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider concerning your specific health condition(s).
