When you think about apple cider, the first thought might be the holidays, relaxing between the flurry of the season and sipping on a cup of hot apple cider. While apple cider and apple cider vinegar each start with apples and water, there are important differences between the two.
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Apple cider is made from apples that are washed, cut, and ground into an apple mash – like applesauce. The mash is then wrapped in cloth and pressed into fresh juice. It’s that simple!
Apple cider vinegar is made through several steps. The process starts with chopping apples, covering them with water, and leaving them at room temperature until the natural sugars ferment and form ethanol. Bacteria then convert this alcohol into acetic acid. Secondly, yeast is added to the juice to break down the sugars and turn them into alcohol. Lastly, bacteria are added, which converts the alcohol into acetic acid. These bacteria are known as the mother because it is the catalyst that gives rise to the vinegar.
A 1-cup serving size of apple cider contains 114 calories, only 0.5g of dietary fiber, and a whopping 28g of carbohydrates. While fruits can be a part of a healthy diet, it’s essential to understand that this small addition to your daily diet adds 28g of carbs that takes time to burn and can spike your blood sugar levels.
Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apple juice, and the nutrition differences are night and day. A 1 tbsp serving of apple cider vinegar contains just 3 calories and 0.1g of carbohydrates. Obviously, you’re not going to sip on a nice cup of apple cider vinegar, but it has excellent health benefits in small quantities.
People have used apple cider vinegar for centuries in cooking and medicine. Research says that it has various healthful properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Evidence also suggests that it could possibly offer other health benefits like:
While there is a long list of the health benefits of apple cider vinegar, how can it be used to aid in weight loss? Overall, apple cider vinegar may contribute to weight loss by helping you feel full and satisfied, lowering blood sugar, and reducing insulin levels. Also, as mentioned above, apple cider vinegar only contains about 3 calories per tablespoon, and the carbs are negligible. This means that if you include apple cider vinegar in a low-carb, low-calorie drink, it can be an excellent part of a nutritional fat loss program.
The most effective apple cider drink recipes for weight loss will only ever contain a handful of simple ingredients. Remember that when your focus is weight loss, one of the best approaches is to keep things simple and use as few ingredients as possible.
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Sweeter Alternative:
Combine the ingredients above with 1 cup of warm water (rather than cold) and add ½ tsp raw honey. For a cold drink, mix well, then pour over ice.
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If you’re in the mood for a nice hot drink, sipping this steaming apple cider vinegar drink is perfect in the morning or before bed. If the taste is too strong, you can sweeten your apple cider with stevia.
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Studies have shown that apple cider vinegar has impressive effects on weight and body fat. In a 12-week study of obese adults, on average, those who consumed 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar per day lost 2.6 pounds, and those who consumed 2 tablespoons per day had an average weight loss of 3.7 pounds.
If you’re already practicing healthy nutrition and a reasonable amount of exercise, adding a healthful apple cider drink 2-3 times throughout your day can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Do you want the benefits of apple cider vinegar for weight loss but hate the taste? Here are some other options to consider:
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