Water with apple cider vinegar and baking soda is a popular homemade drink, and the two ingredients are a well-known combination for many household and beauty purposes. Both products are easy to find and cheap, which is why they can be found in almost every home.
You have probably used this combination to clean your house or to wash your hair, but this article shows how many people also use it as a drink, as part of a balanced diet and a weight-management routine.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda have opposite pH values: vinegar is acidic and baking soda is alkaline. When a pinch of baking soda is added to diluted vinegar, it neutralizes part of the acid, which makes the drink milder.
Even though many people use baking soda for gastric acid discomfort, it is not recommended for long-term use, because it can affect the natural acidity of the stomach and it contains a lot of sodium. For proper digestion, the stomach needs a balanced level of hydrochloric acid.
Traditional Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar
Along with its culinary uses, apple cider vinegar is a traditional folk remedy that people have used for many purposes. It contains acetic acid, enzymes, and small amounts of minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
In folk tradition, apple cider vinegar is used in the following ways. Most of these uses are based on tradition, and the scientific evidence for them is limited:
- As part of a diet that supports the liver and the way the body metabolizes fats.
- To support the kidneys and the urinary tract.
- To support the metabolism as part of a weight-management routine.
- As a mild traditional diuretic that helps the body release excess fluids.
- As part of a varied diet that supports eye comfort.
- To support digestion, especially in case of bloating and flatulence.
- To support regularity and a balanced intestinal flora.
- As a diluted mouth rinse for gum comfort.
- To help loosen mucus during colds.
- As part of a diet aimed at healthy triglyceride, cholesterol, and uric acid levels.
- As a traditional gargle for a sore throat and cough.
- For muscle cramps, because of its mineral content.
- For the appearance of the skin.
- By people looking for comfort when dealing with kidney or gallbladder stones, although stones always need medical attention.
- For occasional stomach discomfort.
- As part of a routine aimed at kidney stones related to uric acid, a topic researchers are still studying.
- For general urinary tract comfort.
- As part of an oral care routine; it should always be well diluted, because the acid can damage tooth enamel.
How to Prepare?
You need:
- A glass of warm or hot water.
- 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar
- A pinch of baking soda
Use organic, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar and good-quality, food-grade baking soda. Stir well and wait for the fizzing to stop before you drink it.
When to Consume?
Many people drink 1–3 glasses a day. You do not need to drink them on an empty stomach, but have them at least one hour before the next meal.
Some people prefer to drink one glass before every meal.
If you have high blood pressure, kidney problems, stomach ulcers, or diabetes, are pregnant, or take any medication, ask your doctor before drinking this mixture regularly. Results vary from person to person.
Via Step To Health
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your doctor about any health concern.