Apple Cider Vinegar…It’s Not Just For Salads

By Lena Sheehan

The apple, which is rich in valuable vitamins and minerals is the unparalleled king of the fruit world. While apples should be a part of our diet, apple cider vinegar, which possesses particularly beneficial properties, can propel us into super health.

The healing benefits of apple cider vinegar are diverse. It can be used as an antiseptic and has the ability to kill bacteria in the digestive tract. It aids digestion because its composition closely resembles the digestive juices in the stomach. As a result, apple cider vinegar provides for a more effective digestion process and improves the metabolism.

Apple cider vinegar also prevents toxemia, improves the blood, helps fight obesity and assists wounds in healing faster. The immune system is strengthened because of the rich concentration of carotenoid,—a source of vitamin A. This vinegar’s form of vitamin A is from a natural source which makes it unique in boosting the immune system and preventing cellular destruction.

A bonus is that apple cider vinegar is a rich source of complex carbohydrates and fiber that have been recommended for more energy and resistance against cancer.

Did I say fiber? Yes! There are two types of fiber. Insoluble fibers, such as wheat bran, are good for reducing intestinal transit time and have laxative properties. Soluble fibers, such as pectin, (found in vinegar made from whole apples), slow down absorption from the intestines because of their jelling properties.

This soluble fiber, boosts your body’s natural ability to reduce levels of cholesterol by actually sticking to the cholesterol and then washing it out of our system. Vinegar’s pectin thereby reduces cholesterol levels which then reduces our risk of heart attack and related cardiovascular problems. The jelling action of pectin also resists accumulation of toxins that might otherwise predispose you to problems of cancer.

Since it is a rich source of potassium, apple cider vinegar is also thought to guard against stroke. The antioxidant activity of carotenoid is a primary reason many feel that apple cider vinegar can supply ammunition against a host of other disorders linked to free radical destruction, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, cataracts, rheumatoid arthritis and even aging.

But there’s more! Apple cider vinegar is also a good source for Boron. This mineral plays a major role in maintaining a strong skeleton system. Boron has a major benefit for post-menopausal women who face alarming calcium loss.

So how much apple cider vinegar do you need to take? Well, that’s up to you. I like to enjoy it mixed with a tall glass of ice water. But reportedly, two tablespoons a day should help to keep the doctor away.

Lena Sheehan is a Naturopathic, certified nutrition specialist, certified hypnotherapist, Reiki Master, Karuna Ki Master, legally ordained spiritual and Evangelistic Minister.   www.lenainc.com or 702-889-3133

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