When it comes to all things wellness, turmeric and apple cider vinegar (ACV) have both become ubiquitous natural remedies, each with its own set of potential health perks. What if you combine these two superstars, though? Let’s get a little closer to understanding what they could bring — and what to watch out for.
Turmeric, whose active ingredient is curcumin, is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory effects. Curcumin has been a source of hope in reducing inflammation and pain, particularly for individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis. Nevertheless, it typically requires a fairly high dose of curcumin to achieve these effects, much more than you’d receive from adding turmeric to your evening meal. Combining curcumin with a fat source or with piperine (black pepper) will make it easier for your body to absorb, which is why supplements are often preferred over the spice alone.
Apple cider vinegar, however, is commonly touted for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Certain studies indicate that consuming one to two tablespoons of diluted ACV per day may reduce fasting blood glucose and enhance long-term blood sugar indicators such as HbA1c. Although both turmeric and ACV are promising individually, there isn’t much concrete evidence that taking them together provides you with additional benefits over what they can offer individually.
In terms of digestion, both turmeric and ACV have been used for centuries as traditional remedies, but the science supporting them is fairly limited. Turmeric may assist with IBS and IBD symptoms, whereas ACV tends to be used for acid reflux and improved nutrient absorption. Nevertheless, neither is to be utilized as a replacement for prescription pills, and we have no idea if having them both combined makes that big of an impact on digestion.
Many people look to ACV for weight control, as well. Some research indicates that taking ACV on a daily basis may contribute to modest weight reduction over the course of time, and turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties may have an indirect role in maintaining a healthier weight. But once again, using them together doesn’t necessarily equal a supercharged effect on weight loss. Ultimately, a balanced diet and exercise regimen are still the ticket to controlling weight.
Both ACV and turmeric have also been associated with enhanced metabolic health, such as improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels. But again, like with all other benefits, we don’t yet know if it’s better to take them together or separately. And remember, they’re not a substitute for proven methods such as good diet and exercise.
In the world of skincare, turmeric and ACV tend to come up as natural treatments for all sorts of skin problems. Turmeric, particularly when applied topically, may enhance the potency of skin treatments. ACV, however, can be quite harsh due to its high acidity level, and if not diluted correctly, it could potentially do more harm to your skin than good.
Safety is a big thing to keep in mind when using either of these. ACV is highly acidic, so it should always be diluted to protect your throat and tooth enamel. Large amounts could also interfere with medications or drop your potassium levels too low. Turmeric is generally safe, but taking a lot of it might cause stomach upset, and its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding isn’t fully understood yet.
If you’re considering giving turmeric and ACV together a shot, there are plenty of delicious ways to incorporate them into your life. You can blend them into chilled tonics, heat up a warm drink, or add them to salad dressings. Experiment to see what is most effective for you, but don’t forget to check in with your medical practitioner first — particularly if you have any sort of medical condition or are on medications.
When it comes to natural treatments, turmeric and apple cider vinegar both have a lot to offer. And although scientists are still discovering what they can do when used together, their respective benefits are certainly worth noting.
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