Apple cider vinegar, known by most as ACV, is just one of those oldie but goodie things that you may remember seeing in your grandmother’s kitchen cupboard. Even if you were put off by its distinct aroma as a kid, you may well now know that this ancient elixir has many fantastic attributes. Turn’s out, your grandmother was right; having a bottle of ACV around the house can be very useful.
On its own, apple cider vinegar is bursting with health-promoting properties since it is loaded with antioxidants and antimicrobial elements. It has been found to offer many health benefits, including boosting weight loss, reducing cholesterol, reducing blood sugar, and improving symptoms of diabetes, balancing pH, and promoting gut health, to name a few.
I love to combine apple cider vinegar with other super healthy ingredients. Here are some of my favorite ways to maximize the benefits of apple cider vinegar while reaping the benefits of other superfoods.
Raw local honey and cinnamon
Honey is well known for its anti-inflammatory, bacteria-fighting, and wound healing properties. Cinnamon is not only an ancient spice, but it is also packed full of powerful health properties. Research has uncovered that cinnamon can regulate blood sugar levels in persons with type 2 diabetes by improving their insulin response. A review of eight studies found that fasting blood glucose levels were lowered with cinnamon and cinnamon extracts. This concoction is a potent immunity-booster and blood sugar regulator and can ease digestive discomfort, support cardiovascular health, and fight inflammation throughout the body. It can also bring that healthy glow back to your skin. Simply mix 2 cups of ACV, 2 cups of raw, local honey, and 2 teaspoons of organic cinnamon. Keep in a jar in a cool, dry area and one tablespoon to your favorite herbal tea.
Filtered water
Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar into about 16 ounces of water in a bottle and sip it throughout the day. This practice is linked to fending off cravings, lowering cholesterol levels, and even helping to reduce stubborn belly fat deposits.
Drinking water with a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar throughout the day also has other nutritional benefits besides weight loss. This vinegar contains important enzymes, is rich in minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium, and helps the body attain an alkaline pH.
Aztec Secret Indian Clay
Combine equal parts of ACV and Aztec Secret Indian Clay. Apply to your face, leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
With all of the uses for apple cider vinegar and the numerous ways it can keep your skin looking and feeling its best, there is no reason for this superfood not to be in your pantry.
CBD oil
CBD is one of 60 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is a totally non-psychoactive compound that alters neurotransmitter releases in the brain and acts on nerve receptors. However, the cannabis plant is different from the hemp plant. CBD does not contain THC, which is the cannabinoid in cannabis that causes a high.
CBD oil is an anti-inflammatory agent. Chronic inflammation can quickly take over your body and lead to fatigue, joint pain, and a decreased quality of life. CBD oil has actually been proven in several studies to decrease inflammation and restore range of movement while reducing pain. Many athletes take CBD to keep their muscles limber and aid in rehabilitation.
Anxiety management and treatment is one of the most common uses for CBD oil and is an area of acute interest for researchers. It has been shown to have anti-anxiety and antipsychotic properties, but more research is needed to determine appropriate dosing and exposure.
Adding a few drops of CBD oil to apple cider vinegar creates a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-fighting elixir. Add some warm water and honey to make a potent, health-promoting drink.
Green tea
According to research from Harvard Health, tea has numerous health benefits. Studies show that individuals who drink tea are at reduced risk for cancer, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and even the common cold. Green tea may provide even more health benefits and help keep excess pounds from sticking to your waistline. To boost your metabolism, brew a mug of your favorite organic green tea, adding a couple of peppermint or spearmint leaves if you wish. Allow to cool. Add 1 or 2 teaspoons of ACV to the chilled tea. Sweeten with raw, local honey if desired.
Choose the best apple cider vinegar
In order to enjoy the best quality product and all the benefits that accompany it, go for organic, unpasteurized, apple cider vinegar. It is made by the simple process of crushing apples, squeezing out the juice, and adding bacteria and yeast cultures to kickstart the fermentation process.
A quality apple cider vinegar will appear cloudy, with a web-like substance floating inside, known as the mother of vinegar. While it may look a little strange, it is filled with nutrients and beneficial bacteria. The clear apple cider vinegar that you may find on store shelves has had much of the goodness pasteurized out.
Shop wisely and enjoy all that apple cider vinegar has to offer!
-Susan Patterson