Apple Cider Vinegar
Many believe this fermented tonic helps keep them healthy. Here’s how to incorporate it into your everyday.
What It Has
Acetic Acid: The central ingredients in all vinegars, acetic acid may help slow digestion and regulate blood sugar.
Expert Take
With its high levels of acetic acid, apple cider vinegar can soothe inflammation, raise your metabolism and knock out bacteria, says Maura Henninger, a naturopathic doctor based in New York City.
Natural Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Treat Your Scalp
Kill fungi that contribute to dandruff while improving your scalp’s overall health: Add equal parts apple cider vinegar and water to a spray bottle and spritz on hair, then shampoo after 15 minutes. Or use it as a weekly clarifying rinse to remove product buildup.
Even Out Blood Sugar
Apple cider vinegar has been touted as helping people eat less by stabilizing blood sugar and giving a feeling of fullness. (If you have diabetes or acid reflux, check with a naturopathic doctor first.) Sip this metabolic booster with meals: Stir 2 tbsp vinegar and a little stevia or honey into a hot green tea (also reputed to stimulate metabolism).
Quench Your Skin’s Thirst
Skin has an acidic barrier that maintains its moisture levels and protects against infection and conditions like eczema. You can restore its acidity – rev up moisture-by adding this to a lukewarm bath: 1 cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup coconut oil, and 10 drops lavender essential oil. After soaking, apply moisturizer liberally while skin is still damp. (And keep the remedy in mind for next summer; it’s also great for taking the sting out of sunburn.)
Prevention Magazine – Healing Kitchen, The natural benefits of everyday foods
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