In my earlier post here, we talked about ways that make Intermittent Fasting (IF) sustainable so we don’t feel deprived.

There may be times we have cravings in the process of IF. In this article, I want to share how Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) can reduce sugar cravings, supress appetite and make the IF process more sustainable.

What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?

ACV is vinegar made from fermented apples. In the process of fermantation, the sugars from the apple turn into alcohol which is fermented again to convert the alcohol to acetic acid.

The brownish color, with a ‘cobweb-like’ substance floating in the ACV, is called the ‘mother’. It gets richer in nutrients as the ACV matures. It is ideal to choose ACV that is made raw, unfiltered and made from organic apples.

The acetic acid in ACV slows down the rate at which our stomach digest the food going into our small intestines. This slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates and give our body more time to remove glucose from the blood, reducing a sugar spike in our blood sugars.

Important: Do not choose ACV that contains honey or added sugar as it will break the fast.

Why Keeping Blood Sugar Levels Low Is Important

When we are not eating, our blood sugar levels drop, causing our insulin levels to fall. Our body thinks that we are starving and will look for other sources of fuel, such as the stored energy in our body starting with glycogen. When our storage of glycogen falls, we start buring fat. Hence this is why a prolonged fast promotes weight loss. 

It may sound overwhelming to (literally) “swallow” ACV given its naturally pungent smell especially on a first time.

Here are some hacks to make your ACV drink more enjoyable:

1. Start with a small amount

For a start, try one tablespoon with a glass of water. If it’s bitter or sour to swallow, add some pink or kosher salt. It will reduce the sourness and add minerals to your drink.

2. Add varieties to your ACV drink

Play around with your ACV drink. Combine a variety of ingredients to make it a mocktail. You can consider the below ingredients:

• Lemon slices
• Ginger/Tumeric shot
• Cinnamon
• Mint leaves
• Pink/Kosher salt
• Ice cubes, sparking water
• Sugar substitutes, Honey

3. Use it as a dressing on your salad

An easy way to reap the benefits of ACV is to use it as a salad dressing. Combine ACV with olive oil, salt and garlic. It helps to mask off the pungent smell of ACV.

End Thoughts

Apple Cider Vinegar on it’s own is not a plesant thing. Fortunately, there are ways to make ACV more platable and reap its benefits.  Which one works the best for you and why? Is there other ways you consume ACV? Would love to hear your thoughts and comments!