Move over, detox water! Vinegar has been used for centuries, and it is not going anywhere. The simple salad dressing is stealing the spotlight, and for a good reason. Scientists have found long term health benefits from drinking as little as a teaspoon a day! This simple addition to your diet is cheap and easy to find in any grocery store making it perfect for the wellness-obsessed.
Different varieties of vinegar can impact your health in different ways; variety is the spice of life after all! Understanding the science behind vinegar is essential to knowing how it can help you. Vinegar is composed of acetic acid - this acid is responsible for vinegar’s sour taste and natural health benefits. When digested, the acid is able to diffuse through cell membranes and focus on specific cells. It aids your body in burning calories and breaking down carbohydrates; perfect for trimming your waistline!
Vinegar is also a natural anti-bacterial; the littlest amount of acetic acid is able to prevent many foodborne illnesses, such as Salmonella and E. Coli. Vinegar is also high in anti-oxidants which are perfect for slowing down cell deterioration. If you’re afraid of looking a little haggard in the morning, instead of chugging blueberry juice, try a little vinegar!
If you find yourself hiding from your co-workers when they have a cold, try apple cider vinegar. This type of vinegar is perfect for a quick boost to your immune system. Apple cider vinegar is also high in certain organic acids that are also proven to aid in digestion by reducing gas and even preventing constipation!
Research also shows that apple cider vinegar can prevent diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s by slowing down the growth of those particular cells. If you’re feeling especially enthusiastic about disease prevention, add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to water and drink before or with every meal.
Have you heard the rumor that vinegar can help you lose weight? Well, it’s true! Organic rice vinegar, especially black rice vinegar, contains a higher amount of amino acids than others. Rice vinegars are great at breaking down adipocytes, AKA the cells in your body that store fat. Research shows that mixing about three tablespoons of rice vinegar with water or even fruit juices can help slow down weight gain. It’s important to remember that adding an exercise regimen to your new diet will help you produce the best results!
Warning comes with this great natural remedy, however. Ingesting excessive amounts of acids can damage several areas of your body, including your digestive system. Moderation is key when it comes to vinegar. Make sure to stick with the recommended amounts when adding it to your diet!