It might not sound that tasty, but if you're looking to lose weight, apple cider vinegar should definitely be a part of your diet. In fact, research shows it can actually amplify your weight loss results. But how does it do it, and how do you work this miracle item into your weekly menu plan? Keep reading to find out.
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Researchers believe apple cider vinegar, and vinegar in general, activate certain genes in the body–genes that play a crucial role in breaking down fat. Though the effects may be small and incremental, over time, they can be extremely beneficial to those looking to lose weight.
Apple cider vinegar also:
Controls your blood sugar: Apple cider vinegar has an anti-glycemic effect, which blocks the digestion of starch and keeps your blood sugar in check. While this is crucial to overall health, it also helps stave off cravings–another critical component of losing weight.
Aids in digestion: This unique vinegar can actually help digestion–especially when consumed with starchy foods. As apple cider vinegar keeps all the starch from being absorbed, it leaves plenty behind to fuel the good bacteria in your gut–bacteria that are crucial to your body's digestion and waste removal processes. Additionally, the vinegar itself is full of probiotics and other good bacteria that can improve your digestive health. And if you want to lose weight (and do it quickly) a properly functioning and healthy digestive system is critical.
Lowers cholesterol: According to a study in Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry magazine, apple cider vinegar can actually lower cholesterol levels. More importantly, it lowers triglycerides–the bad cholesterols that clog up our arteries and lead to heart disease.
Fights off candida: The natural enzymes in apple cider vinegar can help fight off candida, commonly known as yeast. Since yeast is responsible for unwanted sugar and simple carb cravings, this can be great if you're looking to lose some weight.
Suppresses body fat accumulation: Due to the acetic acid and pectin in apple cider vinegar, studies have shown it can actually suppress fat accumulation and reduce your tendency to absorb and store fat.
Though apple cider vinegar isn't a miracle cure by any means, when combined with a healthy diet, portion control and exercise, it can amplify weight loss results significantly. Plus, it's also known to have dozens of other health benefits, like improved skin, increased energy, reduced heartburn, lower blood pressure and much, much more.
Now, if you've ever smelled apple cider vinegar, you're probably not chomping at the bit to start drinking it. It doesn't smell so great. To make it a little easier to manage, try diluting it in water and drink it with a meal to mask some of the taste. You can also use it when marinating meats or proteins, or you can work it into homemade salad dressings to drizzle over your greens.
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