Physical Wellness

Apple Cider Vinegar: From Bad Breath Prevention To Blood Sugar Control – Health Experts Reveal Its Benefits

By Staff Reporter | Update Date: Jan 06, 2017 09:30 AM EST

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most popular health drinks that many claim to have a cure-all benefit. It only costs less than $3, and health store shelves are always packed with this sour elixir. But what exactly are its benefits?

Thomas M. Campbell, a clinical director at University of Rochester Program for Nutrition in Medicine, believes that while vinegar is healthy and beneficial, the "more important determinant of health is the combined consumption of all the food and beverages in a person's diet." The benefits of apple cider vinegar will also depend on what the person is trying to achieve.

Nikki Ostrower, the founder of NAO Nutrition, believes that apple cider vinegar has a big impact on a person's digestion as reported by Yahoo! Improper digestion can cause a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause bad breath. The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar can also help eliminate the foul smelling odor in the mouth.

Registered dietitian, Jessica Cording, recommends mixing a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in eight ounces of water to alleviate heartburn. Adding more water is advisable if it is the person's first time to take the solution. However, Cording thinks that one should see a doctor right away if the heartburn occurs suddenly, which could be a symptom of some other condition.

Apple cider vinegar is also known for its ability to control blood sugar levels. However, Campbell believes that the reduction will greatly depend on certain type of carbohydrates in the meal.  Vinegars have little effect on highly-processed foods that have low fiber and should be avoided in the first place.

In 2007, a study revealed that apple cider vinegar lowered the blood sugar level of persons with Type 2 diabetes when they take two tablespoons with a snack before going to sleep. However, the result is inconclusive as there are only 11 participants included in the study.

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