Although many people view acne as merely a part of life, it is definitely a health problem. In simplistic terms, it’s caused by too much toxicity in the body.

It’s estimated that nearly 85% of Americans have dealt with acne at one time or another. The good news is that with proper diet and time you should be able to completely eliminate acne.

The pores in our skin produce sebum, a waxy substance that coats the skin. Sebum that gets clogged inside the pores forms whiteheads or blackheads. When the pores become infected, they form pimples. Infection in the body is caused by poor diet and poor nutrition, an abundance of candida, and toxicity in the body.

The Acne Diet Connection

Many studies have shown a connection between acne and diet. Certain foods have been shown to help with acne whereas other foods, and food groups, have been shown to trigger outbreaks or make acne worse.

Gluten, dairy, refined sugars, and other refined foods have all been shown to play a significant role in worsening or prompting breakouts.

Studies have found that low-glycemic diets (diets rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes) can help prevent acne. One study found that after patients followed a low-glycemic diet, almost all of them improved.

USA: 2,258 patients were placed on a low-glycemic diet so that they could lose weight. This diet also reduced their acne, with 87% of patients saying they had less acne and 91% saying they needed less acne medication.¹

Australia: 43 males with acne (aged 15 to 25 years of age) ate either their normal diet or switched to a low-glycemic diet for 12 weeks. At the end of 12 weeks, those who followed the low-glycemic diet had significantly less acne than those who ate their normal diet.²

Korea: 32 patients with acne (aged 20 to 27 years old) ate either their normal diet or a low-glycemic diet for 10 weeks. Those following the low-glycemic diet had significantly less acne at the end of 10 weeks than the patients who ate their normal diet.³

Turkey: 86 patients (50 with acne) kept food logs for 7 days. Those with the most severe acne consumed a high-glycemic diet.⁴

CAN THE RIGHT DIET GET RID OF ACNE?

Studies have also found a correlation between gut health and acne, and improvements in the skin were seen after fixing the gut. People with gastrointestinal illnesses often have skin problems, showing just how connected our gut and skin can be. Inflammation can also be a key contributor to acne, in addition to creating problems in the gut.

Through complex immune mechanisms, the influence of the gut microbiome extends to involve distant organ systems including the skin. With intentional modulation of the microbiome, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics have proven beneficial in the prevention and/or treatment of inflammatory skin diseases including acne vulgaris, AD, and psoriasis.

The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis

You are what you eat. If you live off greasy fast food and refined sugar, it shows in your skin, hair, eyes, and teeth. The same can be said for when you eat fresh whole foods. If you want to truly fix the root of your skin problems, you need to fix your gut first, as opposed to treating the problem topically. This article goes into how to fix the gut. It’s not complicated. Cut out refined sugar and other refined foods, start eating salads every day, and always cook at home from scratch.

Every morning I start off the day with a salad and drink lots of cranberry lemonade (click here for recipes for both). For lunch, I’ll have a scramble with eggs lots of vegetables, or maybe a smoothie. For dinner, I’ll have grains and legumes with lots of vegetables.

The Problem with Your Face Wash

Topical acne treatments are not going to fix the root of your problem, and in many cases it can be difficult or impossible to treat the problem entirely without fixing the root cause.

Chemically laden conventional skin care can seriously age the skin. And the skin can become dependent on its use. For instance, oily skin seems to be controlled by the chemical cocktail that causes the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. Or dry skin feels better for an hour or two, but the sebaceous glands don’t produce more oil.

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ACNE

Chances are, your face wash has all the same problems your regular soap does. You can read more about the problems with your soap and over showering in this article. Many face washes can strip your skin of its natural oil and cause irritation. Often times your facial cleansers are full of harsh chemicals and toxins that are counterproductive to what your skin actually needs.

Parabens, fragrances, Propylene Glycol, petroleum, and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate are all among the harsh chemicals you find in your face wash that you do not want to use on your skin.

If you’ve ever turned over the packaging of your favorite facial cleanser, you noticed a long list of ingredients you didn’t recognize. From sulfates to parabens, the cosmetic industry uses all kinds of chemicals in its products.

5 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Face Wash

While you’re detoxing the body from the inside, you can treat topically to speed the process along with natural products. When my skin does start to break out, I use coconut oil and apple cider vinegar on my whole face. This is good to do on a regular basis while you’re fixing your skin.

Coconut oil acts as a mild antimicrobial and helps coat the skin as a lube to help the sebum escape without clogging the pores. Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial and it helps balance the pH of the skin, allowing the skin to maintain a healthy microbiome. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it is also known to help with sunburn and wrinkles.

I don’t use soap on my face, and I rarely shower. You can read more about that in this article. I also don’t wear makeup, ever. I view it as a credit card. The more you use it now, the more you’ll pay for it later. Makeup is not good for you or your skin and makes it much harder to give it up later on. The reason I’m able to do these things is due to my diet. Eating a salad every day and cutting out refined sugars and other refined food has given me a balanced microbiome that keeps my skin clean all on its own.

If you’re searching for skincare products, stick to products that are organic, and have minimal ingredients. I don’t have many personal recommendations. The only soap I’ve used on my skin in the last year and a half is Moon Valley Organics bar soap.

Conclusion

When you begin detoxing through a healthy diet you may notice your skin break out even more than before. Although this isn’t fun, it’s normal and part of the detoxification process. I often find that if I’m traveling and not taking great care of myself, my skin doesn’t break out until I get home and start eating properly again. As frustrating as this can be, don’t give up!

My skin isn’t perfect. Up close, you can still see blackheads and other problem spots. My diet isn’t perfect either. I’ve also lost lots of weight throughout the process of fixing my skin. If you are trying to lose weight, fixing your skin will likely take longer as the fat cells in your body continue to release toxins. Additionally, if you’re young (18-24) you are more prone to breakouts than those who are older.

My advice is to stay diligent. Keep with the diet and know that fixing problems like this takes time when you’re doing it right. Remember, as slow as the process may be to fix all the problems on the outside, you’ll feel radically better in just a short amount of time.

Sources:

• 5 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Face Wash
• Effects of soap and detergents on skin surface pH, stratum corneum hydration and fat content in infants
• What *Really* Happens to Your Skin When You Are Not Washing Your Face
• NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ACNE
• The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis
• CAN THE RIGHT DIET GET RID OF ACNE?

Historical evidence credits ancient Babylonians (5,000 B.C.) for creating vinegar or “sour wine” stemming from the French origin “vin airgre.” The benefits were not overlooked by the Father of Medicine, Hippocrates, who historically used apple cider vinegar (ACV), or cider vinegar, to treat wounds as well as to prescribe it as a tonic solution for a persistent cough.  Studies have shown that apple cider vinegar has a profound ability to improve blood sugar regulation and speed up weight loss.

The fermentation process is required in two series to produce cider vinegar. First, bacteria and yeast break down the sugars into alcohol. Secondly, over a slow and lengthy process, acetobacterium cause the oxidation of alcohol into acetic acid.

Acetic Acid and Blood Sugar Control

Acetic acid distinguishes ACV by giving it a pungent, sour taste and may leave a cloudy, substance, called the mother, in the bottom of the glass (1).  The mother is the fermenting portion of the apple and it is rich in enzymes.  It is best to buy raw, unpasteurized ACV with the mother intact.

A common way of fulfilling a dietary dose of cider vinegar is to utilize it in salad dressing or take a small shot glass of the tonic before a high caloric meal, especially before consuming protein such as beef that requires a longer period for digestion.

ACV Impact Better Than Metformin

Researchers believe that cider vinegar has antiglycemic properties and plays a pivotal role in regulating sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. Specifically, it is possible that a key component of the vinegar acts as an antiglycemic agent by mocking the chemical pathway of the drug, metformin, used by diabetic patients.

Side effects of metformin use include drowsiness, nausea, and diarrhea among other problems (2). Metformin use is also linked to liver disease and heart failure. (3, 4)

The Research on ACV and Glycemic Control

A Japanese study in 2003 found that the glycemic index (GI) was reduced by over 30% when the simple swap of a pickled cucumber was made for a fresh cucumber (1).  Post prandial glycemia is a spike in an individual’s blood glucose levels following meals.

The simple introduction of vinegar consumption with a meal improved blood glucose sensitivity in several studies. The Diabetes Journal published a study in 2007 assessing the effects of vinegar on waking hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetic individuals, a condition known as “dawn phenomenon” (5).

Noted was a 4-6% reduction in fasting glucose levels when individuals received only 2 tablespoons of apple cider prior to a meal, in comparison to a lower 3-6% fasting glucose reduction when the same individuals received pharmaceutical treatment. Another study showed that women had a 55% reduction in the blood glucose response following a morning meal containing vinegar (6).

ACV Can Aid in Weight Loss

There are various factors promoting weight loss in individuals consuming a daily intake of cider vinegar (approximately one or two tablespoons). The antiglycemic effect may be attributed to the suppression of carbohydrate synthesis by inhibiting enzymes that stimulate the rate and timeframe of blood glucose concentration and consequently regulating satiety and/or appetite (4).

Acetic acid protects the liver by increasing tolerance of lipogenesis and fatty acid synthesis responsible for improving cholesterol levels. The synergistic nature of increased blood flow and insulin activity relays into increased energy.

Weight loss effects from ACV are evident in a group of 155 obese Japanese individuals (7). Data collected signified a decrease in visceral fat, BMI and serum triglyceride levels among other health benefits. With many factors promoting the detoxification and overall health of the liver, weight loss may also be caused from the stimulation of fecal bile acid excretion when consuming cider vinegar (8).

Best Strategies for Using ACV

1)  Have 1 tbsp in 4oz of water before each meal.  This will help stabilize post-meal blood sugar levels and reduce inflammatory agents.

2)  Add ACV to your salads and meats, the acetic acid and enzymes in the ACV will help to premetabolize the meal and make the nutrients more bioavailable for your digestive system.

For more information on the tremendous health benefits of ACV and how to use it in a wide variety of ways, check out my authoritative article here.

Further Reading:

• Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar & How to Make Your Own
• Why Keep Apple Cider Vinegar in Your Pantry?
• How I Lost Over 150 Pounds, and How My Life Changed
• How to Lose Weight Healthy

Sources:

• Braggs.com
• metformin – oral, Glucophage – Medicine Net
• Vinegar improves insulin sensitivity to a high-carbohydrate meal in subjects with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes mellitus. – Diabetes Care
• Effect and mechanisms of action of vinegar on glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and body weight. –  Oxford University Press
• Vinegar Ingestion at Bedtime Moderates Waking Glucose Concentrations in Adults with Well-Controlled Type 2 Diabetes – Diabetes Care
• Vinegar and peanut products as complementary foods to reduce postprandial glycemia. – Pub Med
• Vinegar Intake Reduces Body Weight, Body Fat Mass, and Serum Triglyceride Levels in Obese Japanese Subjects – Taylor & Francis Online
• Dietary acetic acid reduces serum cholesterol and triacylglycerols in rats fed a cholesterol-rich diet – British Journal of Nutrition

The thought of apple cider vinegar will make some people cringe as the sour flavor and pungent odor can be challenging. If you are able to get past these things, there are many uses for apple cider vinegar and it is known to have a plethora of medicinal benefits. Apple cider vinegar is basically fermented juice derived from crushed apples. It has some other nomenclature such as Malus Sylvestris, Vinigare de Manzana, and Vinaigre de Cidre.

Due to its tremendous health benefits, I use apple cider vinegar every day in my tea elixir and always in my water, but I have found it to have a wide variety of uses ranging from fighting against warts, to marinating meat! Proper apple cider vinegar will include some strand like material that drops to the bottom of the container. This substance is called the “mother” which holds the raw enzymes and gut friendly bacteria that encourage healing, wellbeing and even aids in weight loss due to its metabolizing effects! Let’s look at some more of the reasons why you should keep apple cider vinegar in your pantry.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains B vitamins– B1, B2, B6, Biotin, Folic Acid and Niacin

Many of the B vitamins are found in apple cider vinegar. B vitamins are responsible for metabolizing fats and carbohydrates into the  energy we need. B vitamins are also important for the nervous system and muscle functions. B Vitamins in appropriate amounts has been shown to alleviate stress, treat anxiety and depression, help memory, relieve PMS, and reduce heart disease risk!

Apple cider vinegar also contains folic acid, a member of the B family of vitamins, that has been touted for reducing the risk of birth defects. Some research has shown that if taken enough, it can reduce the threat of certain types of cancer as well.

Niacin, another B vitamin found in apple cider vinegar, is an aid to boost the HDL cholesterol while decreasing the LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. This effect makes it beneficial to the body because the more HDL in the body the more bad cholesterol it picks up and sends back to the liver for discarding. This equates to a healthier you!

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains Vitamin C                                                            Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in the body protecting your skin cells from free radical damage due to exposure to air pollution, ultraviolet light from the sun, first and second hand cigarette smoke, and more. Vitamin C is the principal water-soluble antioxidant in the body, which deactivates free radicals and prevents damage in the environments both inside and outside the cells. Free radical damage to cellular structures and other molecules can result in excruciating inflammation. Vitamin C, strives to prevent the free radical damage that triggers the onset of inflammation and swelling, therefore it may be associated with relief from inflammatory conditions such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.  Regular consumption of vitamin C delays the development of hardening of the arteries and also boosts the production of two of the skin’s most important proteins, collagen and elastin.

Apple Cider Vinegar is Rich in potassium

Potassium is a mineral that is crucial for the heart, kidneys, and other organs to work properly.  It helps cell growth and muscle building. Research has shown that a low level of potassium intake is linked with a risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, digestive disorders and infertility. The good news is that potassium can be derived naturally from our diet when we include apple cider vinegar! Potassium can also be found in foods such as radishes, bananas, avocados, nuts, and leafy green veggies, milk and potatoes, among others.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains Much Needed Calcium

Calcium is the most familiar mineral in the body but it can also be lost every day via urine and feces. The body replenishes the lost calcium easily from the diet so use lots of apple cider vinegar instead of dressing on your salad for a good source of this nutrient.  Calcium is needed to build and maintain strong bones; is essential for blood clotting, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse transmission.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains an Essential Mineral– Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential nutrient that keeps the body healthy. It is accountable for about 300 biochemical reactions in the body if not more and it helps the body absorb phosphorous.  The benefits of magnesium are endless and include proper transmission of nerve impulses, regulation of body temperature, detoxification and energy production. Magnesium is also necessary for the healthy formation of bones and teeth. Magnesium intake relieves symptoms of PMS and aids in the assimilation of calcium by the body. Some other health benefits include protein synthesis, boosting the bioavailability of B6, and improving muscle functions. Magnesium also works to prevent a myriad of health ailments that we experience today as a society such as osteoporosis, insomnia, constipation, heart attacks, hypertension, migraines, kidney stones and gallstones. Getting some magnesium into your system will only benefit you by helping to lower the risks of these ailments.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains Antiviral, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Properties

A key component of apple cider vinegar is malic acid, which gives it the power against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. I have even heard of it being used as a deodorant because of its proven effects in fighting bacteria and absorbing and neutralizing odors. The pungent odor dissipates once it dries.

Apple Cider Vinegar May Be Used to Trigger Weight Loss

Apple cider vinegar increases metabolism and stimulates fat burning when consumed every day before meals. It also makes you feel fuller and eat less. A study noted on Mercola.com involved 29 people who were given 2 tablespoons of vinegar before consuming a meal. These individuals were found to lose approximately 2- 4 pounds during a four-week period.

Apple Cider Vinegar Was Found to Be Effective in People With Diabetes or Those at Risk

In 2004, the American Diabetes Foundation published a study in their journal, Diabetes Care, that found taking vinegar before meals helped decrease insulin and glucose spikes that typically occur after meals. In fact, WebMD also published a study in 2007 involving several people with type 2 diabetes taking 2 tablespoons of ACV before bedtime. In the morning, their glucose levels had been lowered by 4-6%. The research definitely looks promising in this area, however many more studies would be necessary to accurately determine the full extent of insulin stabilization that may occur by adding apple cider vinegar to the diet.

Hair and Skin Care

Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a rinse to soften and shine your hair due to its alkaline properties, making it feel smooth and silky. It will  substance will clear up and remove dirty residue and oils. Due to its alkalinity, it can also balance the pH in your hair. Just dilute 1 part aple cider vinegar to 3 parts water and rinse. This same dilution can be used for skincare. Apple cider vinegar can also be used as an astringent, firming up and toning the skin while reducing the presence of wrinkles.

Incorporate Apple Cider Vinegar into Your Diet with Recipes from Mimi’s Organic Corner

I love organic food and pursue an eco-friendly lifestyle. So I suggest using certified organic ingredients to maximize flavors and nutrition while minimizing your risk of exposure to pesticides, chemicals and preservatives. Always choose raw, organic, and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar.

Mimi’s favorite herbal infused tea– Steep mint leaves, lavender flowers, two sticks of cinnamon and a slice of raw ginger in water. Then add a tablespoon full of raw honey and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Apple Cider Tonic– Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in 2 cups of water everyday. Drink it before or during meals. To sweeten it up, use stevia, maple syrup, or molasses. A pinch of cinnamon may help you get it down.

Apple Cider Vinaigrette Salad Dressing– Mix apple cider vinegar, Italian herbs, your favorite oil—I suggest sesame, Hemp or avocado oil–add honey, crushed garlic, sea salt, black pepper and some feta cheese, then drizzle over your favorite green salad.

Apple Cider Vinegar Marinade– Drizzle apple cider vinegar over your favorite meats or poultry, then spice and cook as usual. Marinades will make your meats more tender.

Substitute Apple Cider Vinegar– Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute for lemon on your steamed vegetables or in other recipes that call for lemon. Mix it with crushed garlic, fresh ground pepper, salt, cumin, and oil.

Pickling– Pickled veggies are a fantastic side to serve with drinks or crudités. To prepare, combine apple cider vinegar, water, salt, and chili powder. Bring to a boil. Add cloves, garlic and your favorite veggies. Bring to a boil again. Then remove from heat and cool for a while before refrigerating. Serve cold.

Tomato Sauce– Prepare your sauce as usual and add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to give it a tangy flavor.

Further Reading:

• Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar & How to Make Your Own 

Fermented foods are becoming very popular, and for good reason. They are rich in probiotics and enzymes and have highly bioavailable forms of the nutrients contained within the food or beverage being fermented. In this case, the health benefits of apple cider vinegar come from the mighty apple, and the results couldn’t be much more spectacular.

Apple cider vinegar may seem to be a new fad, but it actually has been used for thousands of years. Babylonians used it as a tonic in 5000 B.C., Egyptians used it in 3000 B.C., and Samurai warriors used it 1200 B.C.. Hippocrates also recommended apple cider vinegar over 400 years ago, so this fermented beverage is certainly in good company.

Nutrients Available in Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains more than 90 different nutrients and co-factors that make this a truly remarkable beverage for your nutritional needs. Check out this following profile:

• A good source of potassium and magnesium, and also contains calcium, chlorine, copper, iron, fluorine, and sodium.
• Contains vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, C, and E
• An excellent source of enzymes and probiotics.
• A good source of acetic, malic, lactic, and various amino acids.
• A good source of pectin and fibre.
• A quality source of electrolytes.
• A source of ash (gives it its alkaline property).

Of course, the level of each of these nutrients will depend on the quality of the product.

Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits

With its rich source of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, probiotic, acids, and fibre, it is little wonder why apple cider vinegar has so many health benefits. It balances pH levels in the body and is very antiseptic, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal.

With all of these things in mind, take a look at some of its incredible benefits:

• Balances the inner ecosystem, the gateway to good health.
• Prevents and relieves indigestion
• Helps remove acid reflux
• Promotes bowel regularity
• Improves blood sugar balance
• Helps relieve allergies
• Helps eliminate sinus infections, sore throats, headaches, and flu
• Clear ups skin problems like acne, eczema, and warts
• Lowers high cholesterol and high blood pressure
• Destroys Candida and fungus, and populates the gut with beneficial bacteria
• Eases inflammation associated with arthritis and gout
• Increases stomach acid, which facilitates stronger digestion and nutrient absorption
• Overall detoxifier
• Facilitates weight loss
• Cleanses lymph nodes
• Cleanses the scalp and can help grow hair
• Soothes sunburn
• Eases varicose veins
• Provides energy

With all these benefits, it makes apple cider vinegar hard to ignore as a potential remedy to most of what ails you!

Apple Cider Vinegar Remedies and Practical Uses

So, how do you use apple cider vinegar? Turns out there are plenty of ways to use it so that you can enjoy the benefits without the unpleasant taste or burn that some people may experience. For those who can’t handle apple cider vinegar straight, you can put two ounces in one cup of water. But for those treating a symptom such as a sore throat or acid reflux, the treatment is faster and more effective with straight apple cider vinegar. Here are a few of its uses:

• Acid Reflux and Heartburn – Imbalanced stomach pH is mostly to blame for this condition, along with a lack of enzymes and probiotics. Apple cider vinegar contains all of these nutrients, and simply adding 2 ounces to a cup of water and drinking it up to 15 minutes before a meal will improve acid reflux. It will also work improve the digestion of your meal. To treat existing heartburn (as opposed to prevention), take a shot of plain apple cider vinegar (2 ounces). It’ll burn for a moment going down, but it does the trick without the side effects of conventional remedies.
• Colds and Sore Throat – Due to its antibacterial effects and probiotic content, apple cider vinegar is a nice 1-2 punch on colds and sore throats. Put 2 tablespoons in one glass of water, and take up to 3 times daily to help get rid of both. Gargle before swallowing. For a more potent treatment, you can also drink it straight. And for sore throat relief for those who cannot stomach it straight, try gargling with 2 ounces of plain apple cider vinegar and then drink and swallow two ounces mixed with water.
• Remove Warts – Put directly on wart and cover with a bandage. Leave on overnight and remove in the morning. Repeat for as little as 1 week or until you see results.
• Fight Seasonal Allergies – Apple cider vinegar breaks up mucous and and supports lymphatic drainage. It can also clear your sinuses. Drink 2 tablespoons in a large glass of water, 3 times daily.
• Ease Varicose Veins – Apple cider vinegar improves circulation in vein walls and is anti-inflammatory, so it reduces bulging veins. Combine it with witch hazel and apply with a circular motion. Look for improvements in a couple weeks.
• Sunburn Relief – Add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath, along with some coconut oil to ease sunburnt skin.
• Deodorant – Kills bacteria and yeast which is a major cause of body odour. Simply dab some apple cider vinegar on your fingers and run it through your armpit.
• Hair Wash – Apple cider vinegar corrects the scalp’s pH, and removes residue from it. Use 1 tablespoon to 1 cup of water in an old shampoo bottle and use as a final rinse, or you can get this excellent hair formulation.
• Skin Toner – The pH of apple cider vinegar makes it a great remedy for skin issues. Just rub some on the affected area and use coconut oil to moisturize afterwards.
• Teeth Whitener – Take your finger and rub apple cider vinegar on your teeth for a minute. Rinse with clean water.
• Household Cleaner – The anti-bacterial qualities of apple cider vinegar and its balanced pH make it a great household cleaner. Simply fill spray bottle with 50% apple cider vinegar and 50% water, then use as you would any liquid cleaner.
• Flea Repellent for Pets – Prepare a 50/50 apple cider vinegar and water solution and spray on your pets in affected areas. You can also prepare a tub and soak your pet in it once a day for a couple weeks to get rid of nastier infestations.

Apple Cider Vinegar Recipes

One of the easiest ways to add apple cider vinegar to your diet is to use it wherever you would normally use white vinegar in a recipe. Some good examples of how to use it as a more integrated part of your diet include:

• Homemade salad dressing
• Homemade ketchup or mustard
• Homemade mayonnaise
• A beverage consisting of 5 parts grape juice, 3 parts apple juice, and 1 part apple cider vinegar

It can also be used to make a homemade insect repellent and part of a tonic that can help rid your body of bacterial infections.

The list of health benefits for apple cider vinegar seems endless, but it is only 1 part of a healthy lifestyle. So tell us, what are you using apple cider vinegar for that works really well?

When purchasing apple cider vinegar for internal use, be sure to purchase raw, unfiltered, organic vinegar. We love Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar.

You can also make your own!

Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar from Scratch

10 organic apples
Two large glass bowls
Cheesecloth to cover the bowls or large mouth jars

Wash and cut apples into quarters. Leave out and allow apples to brown, and then put them into one of the bowls (or jar). Add distilled water, enough to cover the apples. Cover the bowl with the cheesecloth and leave in a warm, dark place for 6 months. A hot water closet works well. You can also store it in an attic or well house during warm weather months. Leave the bowl/jar to stand, covered for six months, stirring once a week. Retrieve the bowl/jar at the end of the 6-month fermentation period. There will be a layer of scum on top of the liquid. This forms from normal bacteria as alcohol turns to vinegar. Filter the liquid through the cheesecloth slowly into another glass jar. This can be done by holding the cheesecloth securely onto the first jar or using a coffee filter. Then tip it to let liquid through and into the second jar. Do this until all the liquid is filtered and transferred to the second jar and then leave it for another 4-6 weeks, again, covered with the cheesecloth.

Then your apple cider vinegar is ready to consume and/or store.

Recommended Products:

• Mother Earth Organic Root Cider – Barrier Island Organics