What is apple cider vinegar, and how is it made?
Apple cider vinegar is the fermentation product of apple cider, also known as cider or “ Äpplwoi” . If an apple is pressed and fermented with wild yeast, cider is produced. If this is then specifically mixed with acetic acid bacteria and other wild yeast, a so-called mother of vinegar forms on the surface, which ferments alcohol and sugar into acetic acid. Prerequisites are pesticide-free organic apples and gentle processing.
The result? Bioactive and healthy apple-based vinegar. The main product is acetic acid, but the yeast and acetic acid bacteria produce other healthy ingredients:
- ketone bodies
- lactic acid
- B vitamins
- citric acid
- Probiotics
- some minerals
There are also hundreds of other substances that we have not yet fully understood. What is known is that the many effects and benefits of apple cider vinegar cannot be explained solely by the substances mentioned above!
The interaction of the living microorganisms (lactic acid bacteria, yeast fungi, acetic acid bacteria) makes apple vinegar a probiotic, digestive, sweet and sour, nutritious, healthy food with a wide range of possible uses. In short: it is full of life!
1. Lowers blood sugar levels and aids in managing diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common preventable diseases in the world. In 2015, a full 7.2 percent of adults in Germany were affected by type 2 diabetes.
The diet plays a central role in the development of diabetes. If the body is burdened with masses of calories, fat, and sugar over a long period of time, it loses the ability to properly regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance, or insulin deficiency, gradually occurs.
Yet, it’s also crucial for healthy individuals to maintain a constant blood sugar level. The body will have enough energy to manage the day in a relaxing manner and sleepy phases after eating can be avoided.
Apple cider vinegar can help here. According to studies, taking apple cider vinegar after a meal heavy in carbohydrates can increase insulin sensitivity by up to 34%. As a result, the insulin can function more effectively, and the cells may take up sugar more quickly.
According to another study, those who consume two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before going to bed have a four percent lower blood sugar level the following morning.
Further research supports vinegar’s beneficial impact on blood sugar levels. Almost everyone benefits from this effect, which makes apple cider vinegar particularly healthy.
2. Supports fat loss
Apple cider vinegar is the best option if you wish to shed a few unwelcome pounds. According to research, vinegar can keep you feeling full longer.
It turned out that the participants in the study consumed up to 275 fewer calories per day. Over the long term, this is a lot and helps immensely in achieving visible weight loss results.
3. Works wonders against dangerous bacteria
Vinegar can also exert its healthy effects on the skin. It is particularly good at fighting bacteria and fungi.
This method of application has a tradition. Vinegar has long been used to treat nail fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections.
2,000 years ago, long before the antibacterial effects of alcohol were known, Hippocrates used vinegar to disinfect wounds.
Food preservation benefits from apple cider vinegar’s antimicrobial properties.
So if you want to prevent infections that are harmful to your health, you can use healthy apple cider vinegar more often.
4. Natural home remedy for dandruff
Anyone who suffers from dandruff knows the problem. Anti-dandruff shampoos often only help for a short time. In addition, they combat dandruff using chemical ingredients.
However, many people want to avoid these substances as much as possible and are looking for natural alternatives.
Due to its high content of natural acetic acid, apple cider vinegar works against the harmful yeast fungi on the skin, which are often responsible for dandruff. Similar to the flora in our intestines, our skin contains a variety of bacteria and fungus. These are very important for us and protect our skin.
However, sometimes the balance between negative and positive microorganisms is disturbed, and unpleasant yeast fungi spread. The result: dandruff forms.
Apple cider vinegar can help displace yeast and restore a healthy balance.
5. Lowers cholesterol and protects the heart
On the list of the top ten causes of death worldwide, heart disease ranks a dismal number one with over 8 million deaths.
The majority of these ten causes of death are entirely avoidable, especially with proper nutrition and increased physical activity. An alteration in diet is especially advantageous for those suffering from coronary heart disease. Apple cider vinegar can benefit heart health when it is part of a balanced diet.
Admittedly, the study situation is still quite manageable. However, there are initial animal studies showing that apple cider vinegar can help reduce triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood.
A human investigation revealed that salad dressings containing apple cider vinegar had a decreased risk of heart disease.
Of course, using apple cider vinegar isn’t enough. It’s crucial to alter your diet over the long term if you want to minimize your risk of heart disease in a sustainable way.
Preparation tips
Apple cider vinegar is particularly good in salad dressing. Simply mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a tablespoon of olive oil, a teaspoon of mustard, and some pepper. The healthy dressing is ready.
The fruity vinegar can also be used in potato salad. If you are looking for more delicious recipes with apple cider vinegar, you will find many apple cider vinegar recipes to try out here:
Knowledge to take with you
Apple cider vinegar is not only versatile but also has a whole range of positive effects on our health.
Not only does it help stabilize blood sugar levels and fight diabetes, but it also protects the heart and can reduce the risk of a heart attack.
Moreover, apple cider vinegar can benefit our skin. With its antibacterial properties, it treats fungal skin conditions, disinfects, and can even be used successfully to treat the root of dandruff. Apple cider vinegar aids the body with its healthful effects as a component of a balanced diet.
Just 1-2 tablespoons per day, for example, as part of the salad dressing, are sufficient and give every salad a distinctive touch.