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Diet Diva

Get advice on healthy eating, nutrition, and weight loss from expert dietitian Tara Gidus.

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Apple Cider Vinegar with Mother: Health or Hype?

By Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N | Published Mar 7, 2011

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Have you ever found a product that is completely new to you? There are some very unique foods out there—many that you have never heard of or even thought could exist! I recently spoke with someone who wanted to know more about apple cider vinegar with “mother.” I quickly did my research and wanted to share with you what I learned about this unique product.

Apple cider vinegar has been used for hundreds of years as a natural remedy for many health issues. The remedies have not been approved by the FDA, but many believe it provides holistic benefits due to its potassium levels and nutrient content. These benefits include:

helping guard against osteoporosis
lowering blood pressure and cholesterol
helping relieve arthritis and stiffness
helping fight infections and kill germs, viruses and bacteria
supporting regularity and promoting digestion
helping promote weight loss

The “mother” in apple cider vinegar is a dark, cloudy, naturally occurring substance, formed from healthful bacteria during the last step of fermentation. The “mother” indicates that the most nutritious part of the apple has not been destroyed. This means that the vinegar contains enzymes and minerals that other vinegars may not have due to over-processing. It is said to be the healthiest part of the vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar has many unique uses for a healthier life, but it is not a magic bullet of health. Beware of products that make claims that sound too good to be true; they usually are!

Do you have any other foods or food myths you would like to hear about? Ask me and I will let you know the 411 on it. Email me at dietdiva@healthline.com.