My fellow Fishies (and anyone who knows me, really) knows that I’m the biggest advocate of apple cider vinegar (ACV). The way I feel about ACV is the same way Mr. Portokalos from My Big Fat Greek Wedding felt about Windex. Zit? Put some ACV on it (for real).
There are so many benefits to incorporating ACV into your daily routine. I’ve been drinking two tablespoons on an empty stomach every morning for the past eight years. Here are six reasons why I love it so much:
- It literally cleans your blood, which can prevent diabetes (and even reverse mild cases, too).
I’m genetically predisposed to an increased risk of developing diabetes, which is one of the reasons I take ACV so routinely. When my father was diagnosed pre-diabetic, I started him on the same routine (along with a low-sugar diet), which virtually reversed his diabetes.
- It can prevent cancer.
Vinegar has chemicals known as polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can curb cell damage that can lead to other diseases, including cancer.
- It can kill many types of harmful bacteria.
I was always a very sickly child and even through my freshman year of college was prone to catching anything a kid from school would bring from home. Since taking ACV, I’ve only been seriously ill once. Trust me, you’ll appreciate not feeling like crap and Lorne will appreciate less sick days.
- It can help you lose weight and reduces belly fat.
According to Healthline.com, a study in 175 people with obesity showed that daily ACV consumption lead to reduced belly fat and weight loss.
- Hair care
According to the Gerson Institute, ACV used as a rinse balances hair’s pH, which makes it feel smooth and shiny.
- Skin care
ACV can also be used as an astringent. The Gerson Institute recommends soaking a washcloth or cotton pad in diluted ACV and applying it to your face, or simply dabbing it right onto blemishes to dry them out and heal them.
I’ll admit it’s not the best tasting stuff so mixing 1-2 tablespoons into a glass of room-temp water with a straw makes it a little easier to get down. If you’ve tried it that way and still can’t stomach it, they make pills now, which can be bought on Amazon or at Whole Foods. You can also cook with it or add it to your favorite salad (highly recommend Cindy’s Kitchen’s Barcelona Vinaigrette, the best salad dressing on the planet).
