Many people believe Hippocrates, or the "Father of Medicine", may have utilized apple cider vinegar (ACV) to treat infections in 400B.C. This fermented liquid made from apples is a rich source of acetic acid, which improves some health conditions. By drinking apple cider vinegar an hour before bed or before a dinner, you may reduce your risk for weight gain, diabetes and even heart diseases.

Benefits of Having Apple Cider Vinegar

Many health benefits are associated with apple cider vinegar in your routine life. Here are some of the most common reasons to include it in your diet.

1. Help Manage Your Weight

By drinking apple cider vinegar, you can improve your chances of losing weight. Researchers believe that this happens because vinegar turns on certain genes responsible for breaking down fats. The only thing you need to understand is that apple cider vinegar does help you get better results from your weight loss efforts, but it is definitely not a quick fix. You will still need to pay attention to portion control and do exercise regularly for proper weight management.

2. Balance Blood Sugar Levels

Researchers believe that apple cider vinegar has effects similar to several medications used to control diabetes. Its anti-glycemic effect makes it a popular choice for people having diabetes. It works by blocking some of the digestion of starch. While it does not block all the starch, it definitely helps keep your blood sugar from rising. You should not be drinking apple cider vinegar though if you also have gastroparesis, a common issue for diabetics, which slows stomach emptying. Be sure to talk to your doctor first if you have diabetes and want to use apple cider vinegar.

3. Soothe Sore Throat

Germ-busting ACV can clear any infection that leads to a sore throat. It creates an acidic environment in your throat, which helps kill the germs that cause soreness. Simply mix ¼ cup warm water and ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, then gargle with this solution every hour to soothe irritated throat.

3. Lower Cholesterol

While the evidence is not enough yet, many studies show that drinking apple cider vinegar may help lower cholesterol to some extent. It happens due to the presence of acetic acid in the vinegar.

4. Clear Stuffy Nose

Potassium in apple cider vinegar may help clear stuffy nose by thinning mucus and preventing bacterial growth. Acetic acid works as an antibacterial substance in this case and hampers bacteria growth to relieve nasal congestion. Just take a glass of water and add a teaspoon of ACV to it. Drink it to drain sinus.

5. Improve Energy Levels

Extreme stress or strenuous exercise can lead to the buildup of lactic acid that makes you feel tired. Apple cider vinegar contains certain amino acids, potassium and other enzymes that help treat fatigue. Simply add a tablespoon of ACV to a glass of water and drink it when you are beat.

6. Reduce Nighttime Leg Cramps

Potassium deficiency can cause leg cramps, and drinking apple cider vinegar can help resolve the issue. Add a couple tablespoons of ACV and a teaspoon honey to a glass of warm water and drink it before bed to prevent nighttime leg cramps.

7. Promote Oral Health

If you are always concerned about having a bad breath, you may benefit a lot by drinking apple cider vinegar. Simply drink a teaspoon of ACV with water or gargle with a solution containing ACV to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. If you gargle with the solution in the morning, you will also be able to get whiter teeth and stronger gums. Brushing with baking soda may also help clear any stains on your teeth.

8. Aid Digestion

Regular use of ACV may help treat stomach acid conditions that cause heartburn. In fact, it is good for the entire gastrointestinal tract because it contains apple pectin fiber that plays a big role in preventing bloating, stomach cramps and gassing. If you want to use ACV for heartburn, be sure to dilute it first.

9. Balance Intestinal Bacteria

Regular use of ACV may help maintain the balance of your intestinal flora. This happens due to the presence of malic acid and acetic acid that have antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. These beneficial acids prevent yeast and fungal infections and even strengthen your immune system that will help you maintain your overall health.

10. Other Benefits

Besides the benefits mentioned, drinking apple cider vinegar offers some other benefits as well. For instance:

• Some studies show that ACV may help lower blood pressure. It works by increasing the production of nitric oxide that helps relax blood vessels. It also leaves positive effects on your cardiovascular system and helps regulate blood pressure.
• Diluted raw and unfiltered ACV may help detoxify your liver. All you have to do is add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a large glass of water and drink it before every meal.

Watch the video below to know 3 ways to use apple cider vinegar to get great hair, to soothe sore throat, and to work as food deodorizer wipes: