Diet Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is the fermented product of apple juice. It contains, in varying degrees, acetic acid, lactic acid, citric acid and malic acid. Some credit apple cider vinegar as a cure-all as well as a preventative for a long list of maladies. There is a lack of formal studies to corroborate the claims, but apple cider vinegar contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and other substances known to promote good health.

Vitamins

• Rich in vitamins

  Apple cider vinegar is rich in several important B vitamins, as well as vitamins A, C and E. B vitamins are important in the metabolic process and in the production of red blood cells. Vitamin A plays an important role in vision and proper growth. Vitamin C promotes the healing of tissues, while vitamin E promotes liver and skin health.

Minerals

• Some minerals keep fluids in balance

  Minerals present in apple cider vinegar include calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and sodium, among others. Many of these minerals have important relationships with each other and must stay in correct balance. For instance, potassium and sodium, both vital to the human body, must maintain a certain ratio or dangerous health problems may occur. Calcium and magnesium both contribute to heart health, with calcium influencing the contraction of muscle fibers, and magnesium, their relaxation. Both promote efficient function of the muscles.

Soluble Fiber

• Apple cider vinegar contains pectin

  Apple cider vinegar supplies pectin, which is an important source of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber plays a role in lowering cholesterol in the body and regulating blood sugar levels. It binds to cholesterol and helps prevent absorption in the body.

Weight Loss

• Apple cider vinegar and weight loss

  Those who believe that apple cider vinegar helps increase weight loss attribute the claim to a couple of factors. The soluble fiber pectin assists in stabilizing blood sugar, which in turn reduces hunger pangs. This allows for better control of food intake. There is also speculation that the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps metabolize fats. The general consensus in the medical field is that further studies must be done in order to determine the true effects of apple cider vinegar on weight loss.