Apple cider vinegar and cholesterol

Apple cider vinegar is a product that has many health benefits but the one it is most famous for is its ability to regulate cholesterol levels.

About cholesterol

Cholesterol is actually not something completely unwanted. This waxy metabolite is required in cell-building processes and it plays an important role in hormone production. There are two types of cholesterol - good and bad. Good cholesterol is HDL or high density lipoprotein and LDL or low density cholesterol is the bad one. Ideally, the levels of HDL should be high while the levels of LDL should be low. LDL is considered bad because, if it is too high, it can create a waxy, fatty plaque on the walls of blood vessels, reducing their functionality, inhibiting normal flow of blood and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Where is cholesterol produced

Cholesterol is generated by the liver and the amount the liver produces should be enough for the human body. The problem is that the body gets additional cholesterol from food. Cholesterol levels can be checked though blood tests. The HDL/LDL ratio should be 0.4 and above, even though 0.3 and above are also considered normal.

Apple cider vinegar for cholesterol

There are medications that can be used to lower the levels of bad cholesterol, but there are natural remedies as well. One of the best natural remedies is apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar is made through fermentation of apple juice. The fermentation first produces alcoholic apple cider but the subsequent oxidation turns alcohol into acetic acid. Acetic acid and apple pectin are the main constituents of apple cider vinegar and it is from them that most benefits of this product arise. Apple cider vinegar contains over 50 amino acids, many important vitamins and minerals. It has the ability to emulsify fats and cholesterol, but also mucus and deposits in joints. Apple cider vinegar is beneficial not only for those who have high levels of LDL, but also for people who suffer from arthritis, pulmonary problems, sinusitis, cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, fungal infections, skin problems and many other health issues.

How to use apple cider vinegar

The best way to reap the benefits of apple cider vinegar for cholesterol is to include in the daily diet by drinking one glass of plain, lukewarm water mixed with some honey and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This mixture should be taken in the morning. Apple cider vinegar should also be used in cooking, especially in salads, where it makes a great alternative for plain white vinegar.