Unlocking the Power of Apple Cider Vinegar!

The Surprising Health Benefits of Balanced Stomach Acidity 🌿

Maintaining the right level of acidity in your stomach is crucial for various bodily functions, from digestion to immunity. Here’s why having a healthy balance of stomach acid can positively impact your health:

1. Aids Digestion and Activates Gastrointestinal Enzymes 🍽️

Stomach acid plays a key role in digestion by activating enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract. This helps break down food more efficiently, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients.

2. Promotes Bile Release 🧬

Stomach acid can also trigger the release of bile, particularly if it has built up in the liver. Bile is essential for breaking down fats and eliminating toxins, keeping your digestive system functioning smoothly.

3. Controls Pathogens 🦠

Because of its acidity, stomach acid helps prevent an overgrowth of harmful microbes, keeping pathogens in check. This natural defense helps maintain a balanced gut environment.

4. Enhances Mineral Absorption 💪

Proper stomach acidity is necessary for absorbing essential vitamins and minerals. When the stomach is too alkaline, the absorption of key nutrients like vitamins K, C, and B12 is compromised. Keeping stomach acid at the right pH ensures that your body can absorb these vital nutrients effectively.

5. Reduces Acid Reflux 🔥

Maintaining healthy stomach acidity can prevent acid reflux. When acid levels are balanced, the valve between the stomach and esophagus stays closed, reducing the chances of acid rising up and causing discomfort.

6. Breaks Down Protein 🍖

Stomach acid is crucial for breaking down proteins into amino acids by activating specific enzymes needed for metabolism. Without proper acidity, your body may struggle to digest and utilize protein effectively.

7. Boosts Immune Function 🛡️

The stomach's acidic environment has anti-bacterial properties, helping protect the body from harmful microbes. Additionally, it stimulates white blood cells to function more efficiently, enhancing your immune system’s ability to fight infections.

8. Improves Blood Sugar Levels 🍭

Balanced stomach acid may also contribute to better blood sugar control. By enhancing glucose sensitivity, it reduces insulin resistance, which can help with weight management and lower the risk of developing conditions like type 2 diabetes. 

Here’s a great tip from the ‘Glucose Goddess’: Drinking a tall glass of water with a tablespoon of vinegar about 10 minutes before a big meal or sugary treat can reduce your blood glucose spike by up to 30%! It’s a simple and effective hack to help manage blood sugar levels, so you can enjoy that slice of cake without worrying about a major sugar spike. 😊

Choose a Organic, Raw and Unpasteurised Apple cider vinegar is you can! 

This type of ACV contains natural residues such as fiber, pectin, bacteria, and yeast, which are often removed during processing. Being raw means it retains enzymes that aid digestion, while its organic nature ensures that no harmful pesticides or chemicals have been added. Additionally, the pH level of raw ACV typically ranges between 3.3 and 3.5, which is acidic enough to support optimal stomach function.

Always dilute the ACV in water. Drinking vinegar straight can be bad for your teeth enamel!

And for goodness sake don’t buy apple cider vinegar gummies!  They contain sugar which is defining the entire purpose! Don’t fall into the marketing traps out there. 

I tend to take 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a big glass of water first thing in the morning (along with lemon, Celtic salt, and cayenne) to get the day started off correctly!

It’s essential to listen to your body, so begin with a small amount! Instead of diving straight in with a full tablespoon or more, gradually increase your intake to avoid overwhelming your system and potentially feeling unwell. Starting with one or two teaspoons is an excellent way to ease into this practice, ensuring you feel your best as you incorporate it into your daily routine.

In summary, maintaining optimal stomach acidity is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, immune health, and even metabolic function. If you experience digestive issues or other health concerns, addressing your stomach acid levels might be a good starting point! Consider incorporating habits like using digestive bitters or consuming foods that naturally promote healthy acidity to support overall wellness. 🌱✨

Studies used:

• doi: 10.1186/s12906-021-03351-w. 

• doi: 10.2174/0929867331666230822102021.

• doiI:10.29328/journal.niogb.1001016

• PMID: 29091513