Is ACV a Miracle Cure?

Photo Credit: Flickr

Every time I check Facebook or scroll through my Twitter feed, I see another article touting the health benefits of apple cider vinegar, or ACV.

Now I love a zesty vinaigrette salad dressing or crispy dill pickle every now and then, but drinking plain old vinegar? It just doesn't sound delicious or appealing until you hear about the health claims people are making about it.

According to the Food Matters website (yes, based on the documentary of the same name), apple cider vinegar:

• fights bacteria and infections
• is rich in several minerals
• is a natural probiotic to promote healthy digestion
• balances cholesterol levels
• fights allergies
• prevents muscle fatigue after a workout
• alleviates arthritis symptoms
• prevents urinary tract infections

Plus, it does a whole lot more.

So, why aren't we guzzling this stuff by the gallons? Personally, I've tried adding apple cider vinegar to my daily routine to reduce joint pain, and when I had a cold, to speed up the healing process of the accompanying sore throat.

Did it work?

Well, yes, it did actually! When my throat felt like I was swallowing razor blades with each breath, I took a shot of ACV mixed with water and the intense stinging sensation instantly went away. After taking two shots a day for a few days, the sore throat was completely gone.

And I also notice on days when I add ACV to my morning up of herbal tea (yes, it's sour and not wonderful!) I have less joint pain in my fingers and ankles. Nice!!

So, are you a cheerleader for apple cider vinegar? What do you use it for? Tell me in the comments below!

Until Next Time,
Choose Healthy!

Angela Tague
Whole Foods Living

PS: Let's chat on Facebook and Twitter!

Vinegar: Condiment or Cleanser?

Distilled vinegar. Photo: SXC

Vinegar is a healthy multitasker. A day doesn't go by that I don't use vinegar is some form in my home.

The fermented, acidic liquid is made from everything from apples and rice, to wine and beer. It's inexpensive, effective and readily available. According to The Vinegar Institute, vinegar can be made from any material containing sugar.

In the Bathroom...
I enjoy using plain, distilled white vinegar as a sanitizer since it destroys germs and grease. I make a homemade multipurpose cleanser that works well on counter tops, toilets, windows and even flooring. Although there's a pungent odor, it goes away as soon as the cleanser dries. Here's the recipe.

In the Kitchen...
Vinegar is also a wonderful condiment in the kitchen. I often whisk red wine vinegar with extra virgin olive oil and dried Italian herbs to make a tasty vinaigrette dressing. Recently I splurged on a good bottle of balsamic vinegar made from red grapes. This zesty, sweet vinegar is delicious enough to use as a salad dressing on its own or to season roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or carrots.

So, do you use vinegar in your healthy, whole foods lifestyle?

Until Next Time,
Choose Healthy!

Angela Tague
Whole Foods Living

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