Three-month trial uncovers surprising health benefits of drinking vinegar

My initial reaction to the concept of drinking water with vinegar prompted an involuntary grimace. I pictured a glass filled with harsh, potent spirit vinegar. Could anyone willingly subject themselves to such a taste? Fortunately, it turns out that fruit vinegars are vastly more palatable.

As a practical individual, I decided to do some research before procuring a bottle of fruit vinegar. I remembered a college lecture mentioning the consumption of vinegar as a health fad with some scientific backing.

Apple cider vinegar can be advantageous when grappling with digestive issues. It's believed to possibly decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as lower fasting glucose levels. Nonetheless, the amount of scientific research conducted on vinegar consumption is limited, and only through larger test groups and repeated studies can we definitively ascertain its properties and real effects.

Vinegar can be a suitable addition to a healthy, balanced diet. But it's worth noting the term 'addition' is key here. Even if one were to consume massive amounts of vinegar, it would fail to compensate for a diet high in fat and sugar.

I first ordered raspberry vinegar and apple cider vinegar with hibiscus. Eventually, for the sake of variety, I included red currant vinegar and Kamchatka berry vinegar. Essentially, vinegar can be made from almost any fruit by steeping it in water, adding sugar, and then showing a bit of patience. Otherwise, regular apple cider vinegar is a straightforward option. I chose the more adventurous route, driven by a sense of curiosity.

To my surprise, the taste was tolerable. Water with vinegar can even be pleasing on the palate. Although the scent can be a bit off-putting, the taste is alright, and it wouldn't classify as a suitable punishment for mischievous children during the holiday season.

Once the small bottles were delivered, I began integrating vinegar into my diet. With a firm start, I almost wept due to an over-pour that resulted in a strong, nauseating smell. In the following days, I learned to add merely a tablespoon of vinegar to a glass of water. This water varied in temperature and was occasionally carbonated. For several months, I established a daily routine of waking up to an alarm, mixing vinegar with water, and then sitting down at the computer. I would then have my breakfast half an hour after finishing my vinegar concoction.

Vinegar, being acidic, can harm tooth enamel, but drinking it through a straw serves as a wise solution. It should be noted that not everyone is recommended to consume vinegar on an empty stomach. Although my digestive system proved to be resilient, vinegar could potentially lead to reflux in individuals with a sensitive stomach.

I didn't have to wait long to see the first effects. I began to feel more hydrated. I also noticed that I was staying satiated for extended durations and didn't crave sweets after breakfast as much. Although it didn't visibly affect my weight, I noticed a slight loosening around my waistline. This may be attributed to improved gut motility, as issues with bloating and heaviness subsided.

The most notable benefit was observed during flu season. Everyone around me seemed to have caught an infection, while I remained healthy. I believe my immunity saw a significant boost, and the only variation in my routine was the inclusion of vinegar. Given a balanced diet, moderate body temperature, and regular exercise, vinegar complemented my regimen perfectly and yielded excellent results.