The versatile benefits and cautions of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, known for centuries, is a fermented product obtained from apples. This fermentation process turns sugars into acetic acid, which gives it its characteristic sour taste. Apple cider vinegar contains vitamins such as A, E, and D, as well as minerals.

The history of using apple cider vinegar dates back to ancient civilisations, where it was used for food preservation and medical purposes. Different cultures around the world appreciated its properties. Modern research only confirms what our ancestors knew long ago – apple cider vinegar is a versatile and natural product supporting health.

Apple cider vinegar has a multidimensional impact on our body. Primarily, it affects metabolism and the circulatory system, which is particularly important in preventing cardiovascular diseases. Thanks to the content of polyphenols and other antioxidants, this vinegar has a protective effect on blood vessel walls, aiding in the fight against atherosclerosis and reducing the risk of stroke.

Its influence on blood sugar levels is also significant. Regular consumption of apple cider vinegar helps stabilise blood sugar levels, which is crucial for people dealing with type 2 diabetes. Studies have also shown that it can increase cells' sensitivity to insulin, which limits sudden rises in blood sugar after meals.

Apple cider vinegar has many health benefits, making it an exceptional addition to the daily diet. One of the most common uses is aiding weight loss and improving digestion. Consumed regularly before meals, it can increase the feeling of fullness and reduce the number of calories consumed. It's an ideal ally for those who want to lose weight in a natural and safe way.

But these are not all the benefits that using apple cider vinegar can bring. The antioxidant content helps neutralise free radicals and strengthen immunity. Thanks to this, the body copes better with oxidative stress.

Apple cider vinegar has wide applications in the kitchen. It can be used as a salad dressing, additions to meat marinades, and as a sauce ingredient. Thanks to its unique slightly sour taste, it enriches dishes and highlights their natural flavours. It's also worth adding to vegetable dishes or using as an additional ingredient in soups.

However, let's not limit ourselves to using vinegar only in the kitchen. It is also popular in natural skincare. Due to its antibacterial properties, it can be used as a skin tonic, helping to fight acne and other imperfections.

This valuable remedy can be successfully prepared at home. The recipe for apple cider vinegar is very simple.

You need: about 900 grams of apples, just under a litre of water, and 4 tablespoons of sugar or honey. How to make apple cider vinegar? Wash the apples thoroughly, cut them into quarters, and remove the seeds. Place the fruits in a large glass jar and cover them with cool, sweetened water. Do not close the jar; cover it with a clean cloth and place it in a warm, dark place for four weeks. Stir the contents occasionally to ensure proper fermentation. When the foam stops forming on the surface, the vinegar is ready to use.

However, despite numerous health benefits, not everyone should reach for apple cider vinegar. People suffering from digestive system disorders, such as gastroparesis or stomach ulcers, should avoid its consumption. Apple cider vinegar can exacerbate the symptoms of such conditions due to its highly acidic nature, which may irritate mucous membranes.

Additionally, people taking medications, especially those lowering potassium levels or diuretics, must be cautious. Improper doses of vinegar can lead to interactions with pharmaceuticals and cause undesirable effects like hypoglycaemia or electrolyte imbalances. In such cases, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before incorporating vinegar into the diet.