What Makes Apple Cider Vinegar So Special?
Let’s talk about THE most talked about “natural remedy” – Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV for short). The list goes on and on regarding its uses: from household cleaning supplies to cosmetic purposes to first aid.
A brief history of ACV dates all the way back to ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece. The Roman Army apparently used an ACV tonic to stay strong and healthy. Japanese Samurai warriors used to drink it for strength and power. Also, it is said that Cleopatra used ACV to wash her face. ACV contains antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that balance the skin’s pH. It’s a natural, simple beauty secret that keeps your skin clean and fresh!
Here are just some of the purported benefits:
Eases digestion
Aids in flu prevention
Reduces inflammation
Regulates pH balance
Eases nausea and heartburn
A main ingredient in detox regimens
Helps reduce acne
Smoothes wrinkles
Stops hair loss
Soothes sore throat
Lowers blood pressure
Treats bladder infection, and
Slows the growth of cancer.
Choose Carefully
Before you run to the store and start drinking the first ACV you find, make sure you find the right kind.
Follow these rules when buying ACV:
It must be organic and raw. Raw means that it does not undergo any chemical process or filtration to make it clear. It is unprocessed and unheated. Never confuse clear, sparkling vinegar with ACV – this vinegar doesn’t have any healthy properties like ACV and can actually be dangerous. The uglier it looks, the healthier it is!
Stay away from plastic. As we know, plastic can leak toxins into the liquid it holds. Always opt for the glass bottle.
Buy with the “Mother” in it. The Mother is the brown stuff you see floating around the ACV that collects at the bottom. It looks a little yucky, but it’s SO good for you. It’s the result of fermentation and contains enzymes and live bacteria. This is what makes the apple cider vinegar so healthy.
Why does ACV contain so many healing properties? The secret may lie in its alkalizing effect! Even though ACV is acidic, it creates an alkaline environment in your body which is the exact opposite of what most diseases require to thrive. It is an acidic environment that is associated with most degenerative diseases we are trying to avoid.
How to take your daily dose of ACV
Combine:
1 Tbs of apple cider vinegar
250mL of water (about 8oz)
A couple drops of Natural Stevia
ACV is very acidic, so it’s important to dilute it with water. Drinking ACV straight may damage tooth enamel or cause burning when swallowing. It may taste a bit sour, but the drops of stevia should help – and the benefits are well worth it!
If you need assistance improving your health, we’re here for you. Consider contacting us for a FREE consultation – 408.733.0400.
To your great health,
Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, CCN
Certified Practitioner Functional Medicine Practitioner
Founder of HealthNOW Medical Center
Author of “The Gluten Effect”