So, I have this friend who is always telling me about the benefits of apple cider vinegar. I suffer from really bad sinus issues and she has been telling me for years that she uses the stuff to cure sinus infections - and that it works in no time! She has also claimed that she uses it for tons of other ailments. Well, being that I am now 5 months pregnant and not able to take traditional medications, I decided to dig up a little research and give this stuff a try for myself. I was amazed to find that there are so many benefits of apple cider vinegar - and that they actually WORK!
One of the most amazing benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV) that I have found is its ability to boost energy. Being pregnant, I can't consume much caffeine, but I always feel like I am dragging. One teaspoon full of ACV in a cup of chilled water in the morning and I have a pep in my step much faster than I do when I drink a cup of Joe - and the energy lasts much longer!
Well, it's no secret that pregnant women are often plagued by heartburn. Easing heartburn is yet another benefit of ACV that I have found. Again, I add it to a cup of chilled water, or a cup of warm herbal tea and my heartburn is gone in seconds. It's like a miracle worker!
Being pregnant, I don't want to be around those heavy chemicals that are found in cleaning agents, but I do want to keep a clean house - especially with a 3-year-old running around. I just mix one part of ACV with one part water and put it in a spray bottle or leave it in a bowl. I spray it or wet a cloth and use it to clean my counters, showers, toilets; you name it. Not only does it clean, but it also helps to remove odors.
Now, I haven't tried this one yet, but my friend swears by it. She says that ACV works better than any shampoo. It removes dirt, yet doesn't strip the hair of its natural oils, which shampoo does. She still uses shampoo, but in between washing with shampoo, she uses ACV. And her hair does look great!
Being of Irish and German descent, one look at the sun and I am burnt to a crisp, even with sunscreen on! This one I found out from a magazine; ACV helps to ease sunburn pain. I applied it after a particularly bad burn this summer - just rubbed it on with a damp cloth - and that burn was eased in seconds!
When I discussed using ACV with my doctor, she was all for it and told me that it is great for boosting potassium levels. She said that ACV is high in potassium, which many adults are lacking. So, she said drinking a little each day will help to raise my levels. Who knew?
And of course, I can't not mention the fact that it is a great sinus cleanser. After I drink it in the morning, I jump in a hot shower and let the water pour over my face and my sinuses feel much more open. I haven't felt this little pressure in my sinuses for years - and I've had sinus surgery!
So, it turns out that my dear friend was right! I am completely convinced about the benefits of apple cider vinegar. Aren't you the least bit curious? If so, what do you think you'll try it on?