Apple Cider Vinegar Uses for Health and Home

Chances are, you’ve heard of friends or family touting the benefits of apple cider vinegar. You may even have some in the back of your pantry. Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries in cooking and medicine, but what does the research really say about its benefits?

Say bye-bye to bad bacteria
Apple cider vinegar is mostly apple juice, but added yeast turns the sugar in the juice into a small amount of alcohol. This is a process called fermentation. Bacteria turn the alcohol into acetic acid. That’s what gives vinegar its sour taste and strong smell. Vinegar is proven to help kill pathogens, including bacteria. You can use it for cleaning, disinfecting and food preservation as studies show that it inhibits bacteria like E. coli from growing in and spoiling food.

Balance blood sugar
Apple cider vinegar can help treat type 2 diabetes by balancing blood sugar. The most effective and healthiest way to regulate blood sugar levels is to avoid refined carbs and sugar, but research suggests that vinegar offers the following benefits:

• A small study suggests vinegar may improve insulin sensitivity by 19-34% during a high carb meal and significantly lower blood sugar and insulin response.
• In a small study of 5 healthy people, vinegar reduced their blood sugar by 31.4% after eating 50 grams of white bread.
• A small study in people with diabetes reported that consuming 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bedtime reduced blood sugar by 4% the following morning.
• Numerous other studies show that vinegar can improve insulin function and lower blood sugar levels after meals.

It’s very important to note that you should not replace medical treatment with apple cider vinegar. If you have type 2 diabetes or are looking to balance your blood sugar naturally, talk to your doctor about a plan that’s right for you. And if you’re currently taking blood sugar-lowering medications, check with your healthcare provider before increasing your intake of any type of vinegar.

Boost skin health
Apple cider vinegar is a common remedy for some skin conditions like dry skin and eczema. Since skin is naturally slightly acidic, topical apple cider vinegar could help rebalance the natural pH of the skin, improving its protective barrier. Some people use diluted apple cider vinegar in a facewash or toner. Talk to your healthcare provider before trying new remedies, especially on damaged skin. Avoid applying undiluted vinegar to the skin, as it can cause burns.

The bottom line
Small doses of apple cider vinegar have proven benefits. You can try it because it’s calorie-free, adds lots of flavor to food, and can contribute to a healthier you, but make sure to talk to a provider if you’re taking any medications that may interact with vinegar or starting any sort of new health regimen.