Apple cider vinegar is often referred to as the "wonder drug" because of the numerous medicinal and nutritional benefits it offers. Produced from a fermentation of apples, it is rich in enzymes, minerals and nutrients that are of particular benefit to children.
Nutrition
Apple cider vinegar offers a rich dietary source of a number of nutrients for children. It provides vitamins A, B6, C and E, which the body needs to fight off infection and disease (see Resources). It also contains high levels of calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and potassium minerals. A deficiency of any of these minerals hinders a child's healthy growth and development. Pectin, a dietary fiber, is another essential nutrient that can be obtained from apple cider vinegar.
Antifungal
Apple cider vinegar has strong antifungal properties, which are beneficial in treating infections such as thrush, which affects kids as young as a few months old, and scalp ringworm, which commonly targets the child's scalp, back and abdomen (see Resources). A gargle formulated from a 40/60 solution of apple cider vinegar and water is a centuries-old folk remedy for oral thrush. For younger children, a cotton swab saturated in the solution is used to apply it to the tongue and inner cheeks. A topical application of undiluted apple cider vinegar can be used as a remedy for ringworm and other fungal skin conditions, such as athlete's foot.
Disinfectant
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a safe, natural and environmentally friendly household disinfectant. It contains malic and acetic acids, which are effective at killing germs around the house, creating a healthy living environment for your children. This vinegar can be sprayed or wiped onto kitchen, bathroom and other surfaces in the home to sanitize them. Dipping toothbrushes in a vinegar and soaking hair brushes in it helps to kill bacteria between the brush bristles.
Antioxidants
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent source of beta-carotene and carotenoids, which are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential chemical compounds that neutralize harmful free radicals in the child's young, growing body. Free radicals are responsible for causing cell damage and weakening the immune system, which makes the child more vulnerable to disease (see Resources). Studies have also shown that antioxidants lower the risk of asthma in children by 10 percent to 20 percent by helping reduce inflammation in the airways.
Mosquito Repellent
Apple cider vinegar may be used as a natural, nontoxic mosquito repellent. Spraying a light mist of the vinegar on a child's skin or dabbing it on with a cotton ball will keep mosquitoes at bay when he goes out to play. The sour scent of the apple cider vinegar will dissipate after a few minutes. It may also be used to treat insect bites to ease the irritation and prevent infection. Simply spray or dab a 50/50 solution of the vinegar and water to the affected area.
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