Super Food Secrets: Apple Cider Vinegar

I learned about the benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) through  the Tone It Up nutrition plan. The plan recommends  drinking ACV every morning with breakfast. I don’t follow Tone it Up strictly anymore but I still drink ACV every morning. I will warn you that ACV is very strong and does take a little getting used to.  I recommend drinking it through a straw to help preserve the enamel of your teeth. Curious to why I drink bitter vinegar each morning? Here are some of the health benefits. The raw form of vinegar is recommended since it contains the "mother" of the vinegar which looks like cloudy strands floating at the bottom of the bottle. These strands contain important enzymes that give ACV it's health benefits. 

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar:        

Keep you from feeling hungry by slowing stomach emptying

Help regulate blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol

Soothe upset stomachs and help to remove toxins the body

Prevents indigestion

Help clear up skin and blemishes

Help with weight loss by breaking down fats

There are many ways to get a daily dose of ACV including incorporating it into marinades or dressings. I choose to drink ACV first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to help aid in digestion and absorb nutrients from the vinegar. You can drink ACV straight up like a shot mixed with a bit of water but I found that a bit to harsh in the mornings. My favorite way to enjoy ACV is mixed with fresh fruit juice and a dash of cinnamon.

Tropical Super Juice
1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple juice
2 tbs Apple Cider Vinegar
1-2 drops liquid stevia
1 dash cinnamon

Stir together and drink. This juice is great for before breakfast.

Sources: 28 Health and Beauty Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar & Web MD