The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is one of the most used products of old and new.  How amazing it is to know and understand the uses and affects it has on the human body.

Apple Cider Vinegar is a fermented juice made from crushed apples.  It contains vitamin C, B1, B2, and B6; Folic acid, acetic acid, and citric acid.  There are also small amounts of minerals.

The benefits of vitamin C may include protection against immune system deficiencies, cardiovascular disease, prenatal health problems, eye disease, and even skin wrinkling.

Vitamin B1, also called thiamine or thiamin, is one of 8 B vitamins. All B vitamins help the body convert food (carbohydrates) into fuel (glucose), which the body uses to produce energy. These B vitamins, often referred to as B-complex vitamins, also help the body metabolize fats and protein. B-complex vitamins are needed for a healthy liver, skin, hair, and eyes. They also help the nervous system function properly and are needed for good brain function.  All B vitamins are water-soluble, meaning that the body does not store them.

Folic acid (also a vitamin B) acts by helping the body produce and maintain new cells. In particular, red blood cell formation is dependent upon adequate levels of this vitamin. Folic acid deficiency is a known cause of anemia in both adults and children. Folate may also help cells resist changes in their DNA associated with the development of cancer.

Now that we know what makes it beneficial, let’s dive into how we can use it to gain those benefits.

1. TONER FOR THE SKIN

I don’t like using products where the list of ingredients takes half the bottle to name.  After I ran out of my toner I decided to try Apple Cider Vinegar.  As a person who has deep pours I wanted something that would clean my face without using harmful ingredients and also something that would not dry out my skin.

I bought a small glass bottle, cotton pads and then applied the cider to my face after washing. Not only did my pores shrink, but any unwanted zits cleared up.  You will smell the vinegar, but only for a few minutes and is a much healthier choice.

2. HELPS WITH CRAVINGS

For a snack or when I’m craving something sweet, I make Good Girl Moonshine.

This not only helps with food cravings but it’s a much wiser choice for your body.  Others take just 1 Tbsp before a meal to help with cravings and to curb their appetite.

3. GETS RID OF BUILD UP IN THE HAIR

Vinegar is known to break up all kinds of grime, calcium, and scale, so build up in the hair is no problem for this all-purpose golden liquid. While you’re in the shower, and after you’ve washed with shampoo, pour a little cider on the top of your head and massage as it drips down the sides.  You will feel the tingle as it starts to do its job.  If you need a little more on the rest of your hair to give back its shine, then just take your bottle and pour another round being sure to scrunch your hair at the bottom collecting the vinegar.  Rinse and you’re finished.

4. DETOXES THE BODY

Vinegar is a natural detox.  It cleanses the inside like it does the outside breaking up garbage that likes to stick around in the intestines and other places.  Having a spoonful or two in a glass with warm water and honey is a great way to keep the insides clean on a daily basis.

Now I could go on and on with what vinegar can do for you, but it would be easier to simply say.  Vinegar comes from something pure and natural and I can’t see replacing it with chemicals or other ingredients.

A new product will always come along with a pretty label or manly cover, but just like life, good things don’t always come in pretty or perfect packages.  Apple Cider Vinegar isn’t what you would call pretty on the outside, but if you look a little deeper you will find the beauty it holds.

-Heather Earles

For more about your health read: Nutrition-what it means and how you can Attain it