WHETHER in salad dressing or drunk diluted with water, along with turmeric and kombucha, apple cider vinegar is one of the new-old remedies that's a hit with millennials.
Proponents say the key to its supposed ealth benefits are held in ‘the mother’, cloudy, cobweb-like bacteria formed during the fermentation process.
Although there is currently no scientific evidence to back up the claims that apple cider vinegar is the cure-all that Instagram often claims, there are studies which look at the potential benefits of including it in your diet.
1. It could help with weight loss
“Studies suggest that apple cider vinegar helps weight loss by delaying stomach emptying to suppress appetite, so you feel fuller for longer after consuming it,” says Dr Sarah Brewer, medical director at Healthspan (healthspan.co.uk).
“Apple cider vinegar delays the absorption of glucose, which reduces blood sugar swings that can lead to hunger and snacking,” she adds.
2. It contains healthful substances
Apple cider vinegar is made in two stages. First, yeast is mixed with apple juice to break down the sugars and turn them into alcohol. Next, bacteria is added, which changes the alcohol into acetic acid.
Some people claim that good quality apple cider vinegar can be a source of gut-friendly bacteria that helps to keep your digestive system working properly, although, again, there is no scientific evidence on this.
What we do know is that apple cider vinegar may have antibacterial properties that can help to kill off harmful bacteria including E. coli and staphylococcus aureus.
3. It may be good for seasonal acne
Apple cider vinegar may be a budget-friendly and effective way of solving your skin woes.
Its skin-friendly ingredient is lactic acid, which is thought to help improve acne.
However, never apply the vinegar directly to your skin as it can cause irritation. Instead, dilute it with water for a mild tonic.
Tempted to try it?
Apple cider vinegar should also always be diluted before consumption – you could throw it into a smoothie or combine it with oil to make dressings.
People with existing stomach ulcers, reflux, GERD or renal disease are advised not take apple cider vinegar, as it may exacerbate their symptoms. If you’re on medication, you should always seek advice from your doctor before making changes to your diet.
