Culinary trends are fleeting, but apple cider vinegar never goes out of style. One day you find recipes with acai, turmeric, monk fruit, and matcha everywhere, and weeks later, these ingredients are already out of fashion. However, this is not the case with apple cider vinegar, as many people drink it on an empty stomach or use it to make homemade dressings. So, if you want to discover what benefits it has for you, don't miss all the information we have for you. 

You can also read: Does apple cider vinegar help with weight loss?

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a liquid obtained from the fermentation of the liquid released by crushed apples. Although many people consume it on an empty stomach or use it to make home remedies, this type of vinegar has many more applications in the culinary world. 

If you have this type of vinegar in your pantry, remember that you can use it to prepare dressings, pickled onions, marinate meat, make sauces, and even give that special touch to sushi rice. 

What benefits does apple cider vinegar have?

If you've ever wondered what apple cider vinegar is good for in terms of health, here we explain all its uses and benefits. 

On one hand, experts from the portal Medline Plus indicate that this ingredient is rich in vitamin C and B complex. On one hand, B complex is essential for the proper functioning of metabolism and helps in the formation of red blood cells. In the case of vitamin C, it is ideal for strengthening the immune system, and its antioxidant properties protect our skin.

It is also said that apple cider vinegar helps combat high cholesterol levels, lowers blood sugar levels, and it is even believed to assist in weight loss. But, is there scientific evidence for these supposed benefits?

Read more: How to use apple cider vinegar in your hair

Apple Cider Vinegar: Science-Proven Benefits

As you may know, this ingredient is attributed with almost miraculous properties; however, to date, the benefits are very limited.

1. Eliminates bacteria

Apple cider vinegar has been used to eliminate bacteria for centuries. According to the portal WebMD, it can eliminate pathogens and certain types of bacteria and even prevents the proliferation of E. coli in food. 

2. Could reduce glucose levels

In 2019, a scientific study mentioned that this ingredient could have an impact on the glycemic index of people with diabetes. The Healthline portal also mentions a 2021 study, which indicates that vinegar could "benefit glycemic status in adults."

3. Could help reduce cholesterol levels

A report published in 2023 claims that apple cider vinegar has properties that help reduce cholesterol levels in overweight patients. 

As you can see, this type of vinegar not only has uses in the kitchen, but it also seems to be a healthy food with many health benefits; however, much more research is still needed to prove its effectiveness. Remember to consult your doctor to find out if you can consume it or not and in what quantities. 

How to make apple cider vinegar?

Now that you know more about its potential health benefits, feel free to make your own vinegar at home, here we give you the step-by-step recipe!

Ingredients:

• 6 ripe apples
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of water

Instructions: 

1. Wash the apples, remove the core, and blend them with the brown sugar and water until you get a puree.
2. Strain the mixture and pour the liquid into a container until it is 3/4 full. Remember that you should not cover the jar and you should keep it away from direct light and at a temperature between 15 and 26 °C.
3. Stir the juice daily for 3 weeks. When you notice the characteristic smell of vinegar, then it will be ready. You can also taste it until you reach the desired flavor.
4. Strain the liquid through several layers of thin cloth or coffee filters.
5. To pasteurize the vinegar: heat it before pouring it into a sterilized container or place it in a bottle and then heat it in a water bath. In both cases, the liquid must reach a temperature between 60 and 70 °C. Afterwards, let it cool and store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

Continue reading: Vinegar and its uses in the kitchen