This month has been all about making lifestyle choices for a healthier body. I have a workout plan and some go-to healthy recipes, but staying motivated can be a struggle. I always find myself getting off track when my cravings for sweets get the best of me and I overeat my favorite foods.
My solution to combat these bad habits is with apple cider vinegar! Years ago, I was searching for a natural home remedy. After some research I discovered that drinking apple cider vinegar has many advantages, including curbing those cravings. I started drinking it daily and it’s made all the difference for me. My appetite for sugary snacks subside and I feel full longer after my meals. I’m also less bloated, which has helped me see more muscle definition in my mid-section.
In addition to reducing cravings, apple cider vinegar also supports gut health by improving metabolism and digestion, which decreases gas and bloating. It’s loaded with helpful nutrients that offer tons of health benefits such as lowering blood pressure, improving heart health, lowering blood sugar, aiding heartburn, and more.
I make a drink in the morning and evening by mixing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 3 ounces of cold water. The cold water helps mask the taste. It also dilutes the vinegar enough to prevent damage to your tooth enamel, throat, and esophagus. I admit it’s not the most appetizing, but it’s well worth the tart taste to reap the numerous benefits.
Drinking apple cider vinegar alone won’t work wonders overnight, but when combined with a healthy lifestyle, it can help you stay on track to reach your health goals. Continue reading to learn more about apple cider vinegar and its amazing benefits!
What is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by fermenting apple juice into hard cider, then fermenting that cider into vinegar. To get the most nutrients, I use organic, raw, unpasteurized, and unfiltered apple cider vinegar, which is rich in proteins, enzymes, and beneficial bacteria.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss
Curbs Sugar Cravings
You’re most likely to experience intense and hard-to-resist sugar cravings when your blood sugar spikes and your energy is low. ACV helps to control blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which helps keep your energy stable and your cravings at bay.
Reduces Overeating
The active ingredient in ACV is acetic acid, which has the power to reduce ghrelin (the hunger hormone). It keeps food in the stomach for a longer period of time, helping you feel fuller faster and longer.
Burns + Suppresses Body Fat
ACV improves the gut bacteria that impact how your body burns and stores fat. The acetic acid found in ACV can block certain enzymes that create fatty acids (building blocks for fat) in the body. It regulates your metabolism by increasing the rate your body burns fat and reducing the stored fat in the body.
Better Digestion + Nutrient Absorption
The apple pectin fiber in ACV eases the entire gastrointestinal tract by reducing bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. When consumed with water before a meal, the enzymes and beneficial bacteria support optimal digestion so food is broken down well with maximum nutrient absorption.
Other Health Benefits
Ingesting apple cider vinegar can help prevent or alleviate heartburn, acid reflux, and other digestion problems by correcting low stomach acid. It also has an alkalizing effect that can support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Studies also show that it can lower cholesterol and reduce blood pressure.
Storing Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can last a long time if stored properly. Put it in a dark cool place away from heat and sunlight. I like to keep mine in the fridge since I like to drink it cold, but it’s not necessary.
How to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar
I drink a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with 3 ounces of cold water first thing every morning, followed by an additional glass of water to wash it all down. Then I repeat again before dinner. I also keep a designated cup on the counter as a reminder to drink it every day. If you prefer to sip slowly on a drink, you can add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to water or tea and add a little bit of honey or lemon for flavor. If the vinegar flavor is too strong, you can try these apple cider vinegar gummies – they’re less potent but better tasting. There are also quench thirsting apple cider vinegar drinks such as this and this. Although the amount of ACV isn’t specified, they’re delicious!
How do you stay motivated to reach your fitness goals?
