Apple cider vinegar has proven its positive effects on one's health as well as its being used both as a preventive and curative measure for many illnesses. For many years, it is an ancient folk remedy, claiming to help with all sorts of health problems as supported by scientific researches and clinical studies.

Here are five of the many health benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV):

1. As a Potent Antimicrobial Agent

Killing some types of bacteria, ACV has traditionally been used for cleaning and disinfecting wounds, cuts and bruises, treating nail fungus, getting rid of lice, warts and other infections. Its antibacterial properties also help keep acne under control as the malic and lactic acids found in apple cider vinegar soften and exfoliate skin, reduce red spots, and balance the pH of your skin.

2. As a Natural Food Preservative

Inhibiting bacteria such as E. coli from growing in the food and spoiling it eventually, ACV is a natural way to preserve your food. Pour in a few drops of ACV unto your food while cooking. The main substance in vinegars is acetic acid that can kill bacteria or prevent them from reaching harmful levels thus spoiling your food.

3. As a Partner in Weight Loss

Given that ACV, just like ordinary vinegars, lowers blood sugar and insulin levels, it makes sense that it could help you lose weight. Many previous studies suggest that vinegar can increase sateity or the state of being fed, help you eat fewer calories, and even lose actual pounds. The acetic acid tends to suppress your appetite and increase your metabolism. Reduced calorie intake over time may mean a certain decrease on one's weight.

4. As an Effective Aid to Improve Overall Health 

ACV can help with diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular health, high cholesterol, free radical damage, digestion, and acid reflux. Improving insulin sensitivity and helping to lower blood sugar responses after meals, it has decreased the risks of heart and other related diseases. Likewise, some observational studies have shown that vinegar can kill cancer cells and shrink tumors over time especially when partnered with balanced diet, regular exercise, and an improved lifestyle.

5. As a Partner in Your Beauty Regimen

Improving your oral health, preventing smelly armpits and feet, as well as giving you shiny and healthy hair, ACV also soothes sunburns, lets your face get rid of breakouts and blemishes, and restores your body's pH level.

Now that you know how amazing the benefits of apple cider vinegar in your health, you surely would want to keep an ACV bottle handy in your pantry.