Studies revealed the science behind the efficacy and potency of apple cider vinegar in promoting health and curing certain illnesses. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been hyped as a cure-all medicine because of its health benefits from reducing heart disease risk, controlling blood cholesterol levels, balancing the pH of the blood, containing antimicrobial properties to helping in weight loss.
According to a study by the American Diabetes Foundation, taking in ACV before meals could increase insulin sensitivity and can lead to prevention of glucose spikes after meals. Furthermore, another study explained why ACV is effective in lowering the cholesterol levels in the blood. The study from Life Science Journal states that taking in ACV can lower total cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels because of the antioxidant contents of ACV called Flavinoids.
Flavinoids have antiviral, antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-tumor and antioxidant properties. Its antioxidant properties perform by protecting the cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals which are reactive oxygen species. Oxidated low density lipoproteins are engulfed by macrophages in the body and they can stick to the arterial walls forming plaques. This causes the narrowing of the blood passages eventually leading to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that is known to be a potent antimicrobial agent. Studies show that acetic acid can dissolve the lipid covering of the envelope of viruses. This will cause the collapse of the envelope exposing the virus to be easily killed by the white blood cells.
Aside from these, ACV contains 90 ingredients that are all beneficial to the health. Among these substances are acetic acid, malic acid, pectin, vitamins and minerals. Malic acid show beneficial effects on digestion, detoxification and sustaining aerobic metabolic functioning. Moreover, Pectin is the fiber in most fruits especially apples and it increases acidity in the large intestines reducing the proliferation of microorganisms.
ACV is packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals that aid in the protection of the body from diseases, boosting the body's immune system and helping in increasing one's metabolism. It is an essential condiment not only in cooking but also for health reasons.