Apple cider vinegar (ACV) consumption is something I participate in and support on the Code Red Lifestyle™, and here, I’m gonna explain why.

First, a little info on what it is.

You make it by fermenting the sugar from apples, which turns them into acetic acid.

Acetic acid is the main active ingredient in vinegar, and studies suggest this ingredient is responsible for its health benefits.

So what are its health benefits?

Here are three of the most prominent ones:

1 – It may kill harmful bacteria. Acetic acid, the main substance in vinegar, is responsible for this. It may even prevent them from multiplying. (Acetic acid is used as a natural disinfectant and natural preservative.)

2 – It can improve blood sugar response. Specifically, it’s shown a lot of promise when it comes to improving insulin sensitivity and helping lower blood sugar responses after you eat.

3 – It can help you stay on track. Apple cider vinegar can help you feel full, so you eat less. To be clear, the QUALITY of calorie matters. Volume of food you eat is also a factor, which is where apple cider vinegar can help.

As for how to consume apple cider vinegar, there are a lot of ways. First, make sure you get a quality brand that has “the mother.” Not all apple cider vinegar is created equal.

You can mix it with salad dressings or mayo. You can also consume it the way I do, which is to dilute it in water and drink it with a straw. The straw is important, to protect your tooth enamel.

Start with a smaller amount, like a teaspoon, and put it in 4 to 8 ounces of water. Work up to two tablespoons, depending on how you feel. You can add stevia or monk fruit to help it go down a little easier.

Here is the ACV recipe I use (again, start with less ACV than I have here and work your way up):

2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon of cream of tartar (for potassium)
½ teaspoon of Redmond Real Salt https://coderedlifestyle.com/realsalt
1 tablespoon of lemon/lime juice
Stevia or Monkfruit to taste
Optional: ½ teaspoon of baking soda (to help with the acidity)

Mix all in 4-8 ounces of water. STIR/SHAKE well.

You can add cayenne drops/powder if you have a cold or are feeling under the weather.

And you can take it any time of day, including between meals. I like it in the morning.

Apple cider vinegar is not “required” on the Code Red Lifestyle™, but if you decide to consume it, you’re in good company!