The virtues of apple cider vinegar were already known by Hippocrates, father of medicine in ancient Greece; it seems that he recommended it as a tonic to promote digestion and to treat various ailments: for example as a cough remedy with the addition of honey. When we talk about apple cider vinegar, therefore, we are not only referring to a condiment to be used on the table, it is in fact a real food with healing and therapeutic properties : it is purifying, invigorating, stimulates the metabolism of fats , helping to lose weight also thanks to its detoxifying virtues that make it an excellent ally against cellulite. It also has excellent cosmetic propertiesand it is especially indicated for hair care and beauty. In the kitchen it is used to season vegetables and salad and is often preferred to balsamic vinegar because it is less caloric, moreover it can be a good alternative to salt. Let’s find out more about the properties and uses of apple cider vinegar to take advantage of all its virtues.
Apple cider vinegar in history
Before Hippocrates, apple cider vinegar was used in Mesopotamia (in 5000 BC) mainly as a condiment. The Chinese began to use it as medicine in 1200 BC, but let’s not forget that even in the Old and New Testaments this food is used on a sponge to give Jesus a drink on the cross. The Romans instead used it mainly to disinfect the water while the conquistadores used apple vinegar to fight scurvy but also in case of lice, bad digestion and bad smells. Then we come to 1958 when the American DC Jarvis published a book entitled “Guide to the good health of a Vermont doctor”, in which he described all the healing virtues of apple cider vinegar, virtues still recognized today.
How is apple cider vinegar made?
Apple cider vinegar is obtained from the fermentation of cider which takes place in wooden barrels. Once the right acidity level is reached, it is then bottled, even if it can be left to mature for a longer time, as happens with wine. The best apple vinegar is the unfiltered and unpasteurized one because it keeps its properties intact: it can also be recognized by its “cloudy” appearance. Its flavor is less acidic than the classic wine vinegar, which is why it is often preferred as a condiment for dishes.
Beneficial properties of apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is rich in important minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, it also contains beta-carotene, vitamins A, C and E, in addition to the B vitamins, pectin and fruit acids.
Apple cider vinegar is good for digestion thanks to pectin which helps peristalsis by promoting intestinal movements, nourishes the bacterial flora and also acts as a mild laxative. It also has a disinfectant and detoxifying action, freeing the liver and intestines from toxins: regularly taking apple vinegar helps to rebalance the intestinal and urinary tract pH, preventing the risk of infections. Its purifying action also helps to keep the pH of the blood in balance, as well as fighting bad cholesterol(LDL) and hardening of the walls of veins and arteries, bringing benefits to the whole cardiovascular system. Apple cider vinegar also has few calories (21 per 88 grams of product), for this reason it is useful for weight loss and is recommended in detoxifying diets , instead of balsamic vinegar or wine. It also performs an anti-inflammatory action for the oral cavity but also in case of joint pain. This food is also an excellent saline supplement for this reason it is recommended for those who play sports and in summer to replenish the liquids lost with sweat: just add a spoonful of apple cider vinegar to your smoothie.
Apple cider vinegar also helps regulate blood glucose levels , which is why it is also recommended for those suffering from diabetes, it also works as an antipyretic. Thanks to vitamin C, it strengthens the immune system , helps the body absorb iron and prevents the appearance of tumors. It also helps keep your skin radiant and healthier hair free from dandruff.
Apple cider vinegar: how to consume it and use it in the kitchen
Apple cider vinegar can be eaten raw on salads, steamed or grilled vegetables but it is also ideal for preparing vinagrette for pinzimonio: to obtain it, mix together a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and one of extra virgin olive oil. olive. You can then make a very special and aromatic sauce: blend together a jar of white yogurt, a spoonful of apple cider vinegar with the addition of chopped aromatic herbs. You can use the room to season fish or mixed salad.
Always buy organic apple cider vinegar to make sure no pesticides have been used. Do not use it if you notice residues floating. The deposits on the bottom are instead a sign that it is an unfiltered and unpasteurized product, so they should not cause concern.
Drink it in the morning as an antioxidant drink
Thanks to its vitamins and minerals, apple cider vinegar also has an antioxidant action as it delays cellular aging. Before breakfast, drink a glass of warm water with 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in the morning, to which you can add a little honey. Consume apple cider vinegar and honey for 15 day cycles to obtain benefits for the body.