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Why It's Important to Stop Drinking Shots of ACV

There are lots of good things about apple cider vinegar (ACV) and many people have gotten on the ACV wagon toward better health. But, according to a report from Pop Sugar, downing your ACV in the form of a full shot at a time may not be the best way to go. Rather, take your dose in the form of 1 or 2 tablespoons mixed in 8 ounces of water, once or twice a day just before you eat.

Apple cider vinegar is useful for a number of health-related conditions, such as balancing your pH, increasing your good gut bacteria, balancing your blood sugar levels and helping to control your weight. It also has antibacterial effects and helps tone your skin and treat dandruff.

Another thing apple cider vinegar provides is detoxification of your lymphatic system, which then helps optimize homeostatic function in your body. This may be as a result of the antioxidants in ACV reducing oxidative damage by free radicals, while improving both your blood and organs.

Besides mixing your ACV in a glass of water, you can also mix 2 teaspoons with a teaspoon of raw honey in a cup of warm water to treat digestive problems as well as a sore throat. One little-known “hack” for any savory soup, from chili to veggie soup, is to add a tablespoon or two of ACV to your recipe to increase the brightness and overall flavor.

You also can try it as a hair rinse, deodorant, or mouthwash (diluted) and, because ACV is fermented with a beneficial yeast, it can serve as a prebiotic for healthy bacteria, essentially helping good bacteria grow if you are prone to yeast infections.