Apple cider vinegar has been hailed as a superfood, having all sorts of benefits, many of which are supported by science. This includes weight loss, reduced cholesterol, lower blood sugar levels and improved symptoms of diabetes. It is also an ancient folk remedy, and has been used for various household and cooking purposes.

However, it has to be used correctly for you to fully reap its benefits. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind if you are planning to consume apple cider vinegar:

1. Do not drink it right after meals

Drinking ACV immediately after your meal actually lessens its potency. Some foods are known to make the vinegar less potent so drinking it before meals actually boosts your digestion. The best way to it is to consume on an empty stomach. And if you are really hungry, wait for at least 20 minutes before eating.

2. Do not breathe it in

It's not like wine so please don't inhale it before drinking. That can actually cause serious damage to your lungs as you will feel a burning sensation from breathing the acid into your lungs. Yikes!

3. Do not take swigs of it

Even diluted ACV is extremely acidic and can damage your tooth enamel. To avoid this, don't sip or swig it from the cup but drink it from a straw. Avoid brushing your teeth 30 minutes after you consume the ACV to keep the vinegar from wearing out your tooth enamel.

4. Do not consume too much

It can be exciting when you start to see its effects with your own eyes and you might be tempted to take more than is recommended. As the saying goes, too much of a good thing isn't good and that applies to ACV too. Limit your intake to two tablespoons a day even when you are diluting it with water. Your body will thank you in the long run.

5. Do not drink it right before you sleep

You should not to take ACV right before you go to bed because of its potential of going back up the oesophagus which is harmful to the lining of your oesophagus. It is best to sit upright for 30 minutes after consuming ACV to ensure it stays in the stomach.

6. Applying it directly on your skin

ACV is great for the skin and hair. However, please remember that it is acidic and can burn the delicate skin if you use it straight from the bottle. It can actually leave you with permanent scars from the burns. One part vinegar and eight parts of water together is what is recommended if you want to use it for beauty purposes.

Source: Times of India

Photo source: Healthline