You have probably heard the saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. In reality, a combination of apple cider vinegar and honey may be the cure for many common ailments. Apple cider vinegar, also known as ACV, has been a traditional folk remedy for digestive problems, weight loss, and joint pain for many years. Honey has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can defend against disease. Honey is also effective in soothing sore throats and ACID REFLUXbecause of its ability to coat the throat and stomach.
While ACV and honey offer significant health benefits on their own, you can increase the benefits by mixing the two together. The natural compounds in the two ingredients help fight infection, inflammation and a variety of other illnesses. People who take the mixture daily tend to experience the following benefits:
• Decreased joint pain and inflammation
• Less heartburn
• Improved digestion and regularity
• More energy
• Lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels
• Better looking skin
• Less bad breath
• Weight loss
You may be wondering why the ACV and honey combination works so well. There is a common belief that our bodies become overly acidic when we are ill. Our modern diet, which is high in processed foods, starches, and meat, also causes the body to become more acidic. ACV and honey both turn alkaline when metabolized by the body. This raises the pH level of our blood to its natural level making it easier to fight germs and ailments.
It is important to use raw, unprocessed ACV and honey. Distilled vinegar will not provide the same health benefits. It is best to use ACV containing “mother” which is the pulpy-looking substance at the bottom of the bottle.
To make the drink, combine the following:
• One teaspoon honey
• One teaspoon to one tablespoon ACV
• One cup water
You want to drink the mixture in the morning about 20 to 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything else.
Keep in mind that drinking large amounts of ACV can lower your potassium level, lower bone density, and may interact with certain diabetic and heart medications. You should speak with your doctor before starting a long-term regimen of ACV and honey to ensure that it is appropriate for you.
