Apple cider vinegar: Surprising ways to use health product
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Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar made by fermenting apples, and has long been touted as a natural remedy for all manner of ailments from skin care to a sore throat. ACV is very popular in Japan, but it has been supplemented for about 2,400 years. ACV was reportedly used by the Greek doctor, Hippocrates, who allegedly used it to treat patients with colds by mixing it with honey.
The three reasons you shouldn’t take ACV
Although the health benefits of ACV are clear, as studies have shown it to be effective in killing off pathogens and bacteria, there are definitely some reasons you shouldn’t take the vinegar.
People should avoid it if they have kidney problems or ulcers, while those on diabetes medication like insulin or water pills (such as furosemide), should definitely not take it.
If you’re taking medication for diabetes, ACV can make your potassium levels drop to dangerous levels.
Talk to your doctor if you take these medications and want to start having ACV as well.
Those with kidney problems or ulcers should never substitute ACV for their regular medication, no matter the health benefits it may hold.
Large amounts of ACV can not only lead to dangerously reduced potassium levels, but can bring on other side effects like tooth enamel erosion.
If you have diabetes and are looking to manage it, ACV may not be the way forward.
The most effective way to prevent and manage the illness is to eat a balanced diet that includes healthy carbohydrates and enough healthy proteins and fats.
Anyone with diabetes should understand the impact of carbs on your blood sugar, and aim to limit intake of refined and processed carbohydrates, such as foods with added sugar.
Instead, try and go for healthy and nutrient-dense fibrous carbohydrates.
These include various fruits and vegetables, which are essential to any healthy and balanced diet.
Increasing physical activity can also have a positive impact on blood sugar management.
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What research has been done about ACV?
A number of studies have looked at the link between ACV and blood sugar management, with varying results.
Dr Maria Pena, an endocrinologist from New York City, said: “There have been several small studies evaluating the effects of apple cider vinegar, and the results are mixed.
“For example, there was one small study done in rats showing that ACV helped lower LDL and A1C levels.
“But the limitation to this study is that it was only done in rats, not human beings.”
Research from a 2004 study found that taking 20g of ACV diluted in 40ml of water, with one teaspoon of saccharine, could lower blood sugar after meals.
Another study from 2007 found that taking ACV before bed helped moderate blood sugar upon waking up.
But it’s worth noting both studies were very small, looking at only 29 and 11 participants, respectively.
Again, do not substitute your regular medication for ACV, and it should only be taken alongside a healthy, balanced diet.
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