There has been an on-going trend where taking a spoonful of apple cider vinegar helps people lose weight, but apple cider vinegar has so many additional benefits to your health and skin. Weight lose has worked for the disciplined and patient, but did you know that apple cider vinegar can also assist in controlling your blood sugar? Or getting rid of bad breath? Test the versatility of a product you probably already have in the back of your pantry.
Make sure, when either consuming apple cider vinegar or putting it on your skin, you dilute it. Non-diluted vinegar can cause stomach irritation or damage your teeth. For your face, it can cause a rash or irritation as well.
Another great way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your diet is to use it as a cooking ingredient more often. Add it to salad dressings, marinades, or sauces to get it into your system.
Weight Loss
To get the most obvious and well-known use of apple cider out of the way, I will address weight loss first. When taking small amounts of the vinegar a day, the acid activates your metabolism and help your body to use fat as a form of energy rather than storing your fat. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water and drink before or after your meals.
Get Clear Skin
Apple Cider Vinegar can help clear up your skin and prevent acne by drying out blemishes. The vinegar also works to regulate the pH levels in your skin to the perfect levels, leaving your skin between oily and dry. To take advantage of apple cider vinegar, dilute the vinegar in water to prevent it from irritating your skin. The best rule of thumb is to use one-part vinegar and four-parts water, but you can add more water if you have more sensitive skin. Use a washcloth to apply the diluted vinegar to your face. You can even use this new solution as a toner to remove excess dirt and bring back your skin’s natural glow.
Beat Bad Breath
Adding apple cider vinegar to your morning routine can chase off bad breath quickly. Make your own mouthwash with 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, and a cup of water. Swish it around just like you would with regular mouthwash and spit it out after a few seconds. Doing this twice or three times a week will improve your breath in no time. The apple cider vinegar will kill the bacteria causing the bad breath.
Control Blood Sugar Levels
Whether you have diabetes, or just need help maintaining a healthy blood sugar level, try a shot of apple cider vinegar. A study showed that vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity during a high carb meal (Healthline). The study also showed that after 5 healthy people ate 50 grams of white bread, the vinegar reduced blood sugar by 31.4%. The best time to take the 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar is in a glass of water before meals or at bedtime.
Get Rid of Dandruff
Finally get rid of your dandruff or itchy scalp with the help of apple cider vinegar. Mix 1-3 tablespoons of the vinegar with warm water and pour it over your head after shampooing. Massage the mixture onto your scalp and let it sit for a few minutes before you rinse it out in the shower. Remember, apple cider vinegar has a strong smell, if you want, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to mask the scent.