What is Switchel? What Are the Benefits of Switchel? | VT Switchel (2024)

FAQs

What is Switchel? What Are the Benefits of Switchel? | VT Switchel? ›

Switchel was traditionally used by Vermont farmers to slake their thirst and provide natural energy while haying. As a modern day alternative to conventional sports drinks, Switchel provides hydration therapy and restores depleted minerals in the body. It has a crisp, clean flavor with a long, smooth finish.

The ginger that makes up a key part of switchel is a natural inflammation reducer. Inflammation, causes physical symptoms like skin problems and digestive issues. So keeping inflammation at bay with the ginger found in switchel can have other unexpected, welcome side effects, like clearing up acne.

If it is not heated or pasteurized, it is a probiotic tonic in its own right, full of lactic acid bacteria that benefit the gut and stimulate the digestive system. It has been used in refreshing beverages for centuries, though its use as such had fallen out of favor before the recent-shrub-craze.

It's the perfect thirst quencher after some hard yakka:

While most of us aren't out toiling the fields these days, the farmers who loved Switchel back in the day were onto something! it's a mighty fine way to rehydrate after going hard, whether that's after a big gym, spin or yoga sesh or even a big night out!

The beverage is touted to have numerous benefits, including improved gut health, electrolyte replenishment during exercise, and blood sugar stabilization. However, there has been no research on switchel's connection to any of these health benefits.

You can take ACV and probiotics together without harm. But be careful not to take an excessive amount of probiotics because it can still cause uncomfortable symptoms like gas, bloating, and an upset stomach.

Wohlford says research suggests apple cider vinegar may: support healthy blood glucose levels. lower cholesterol levels. support a healthy microbiome due to the probiotics it contains.

It can be taken before meals or anytime throughout the day. It is a natural and clean way to replenish electrolytes. Good news for all you athletes out there. It has been proven that apple cider vinegar can help replenish electrolytes in your system.

Because it's high in acid, it could irritate your esophagus (the tube that connects your throat and stomach) if you drink it straight or drink too much of it. Undiluted ACV can also break down tooth enamel. To avoid these issues, always water down apple cider vinegar and drink it through a straw to protect your teeth.

So, why not try mixing ACV into a delicious drink? Mixing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water, a squeeze of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey creates a tasty, sweet drink. You could even add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavour or add more honey to make it sweeter!

Is cider or beer better for diabetics? ›

Avoid strong beer, larger or cider: ideally these should be less than 5% ABV. Many “Alco pops” are high in sugar and are best avoided. Low alcohol beers and wines can be a good substitute for the real thing but can be higher in sugar so limit to 1 or 2 glasses.

The switchel keeps in the refrigerator for about one week. If you plan to make a sparkling switchel, use just 3 cups of water for the infusion so it isn't as diluted. Add seltzer or club soda to the glass. For the most effective switchel, use unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the "mother" (the cloudy bloom).

In fact, for individuals with type 2 diabetes, studies have shown that consuming vinegar prior to meals on a daily basis can significantly reduce blood levels of A1c, a key indicator of average blood glucose concentrations. In addition to consuming vinegar alone, consuming foods high in vinegar is an option.

Where kombucha requires live bacterial colonies and days of fermentation, switchel is a happy and simple blend of water, ginger, apple cider vinegar and a sweetener, (usually maple syrup but can also be honey).

These polyphenols are thought to help protect the body from inflammation and fight off infections. Drinking cider can also help boost your energy levels, thanks to the natural sugars found in the beverage. Cider is also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Apple cider contains polyphenols, which are compounds in plants that act as antioxidants. They can help the body to fight against free radicals and cell damage, lowering your risk of certain types of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Polyphenols also help to ease inflammation in the body.

Fizzy, refreshing and a little fiery Remedy Switchel is an effortlessly easy way to get your daily fix of ACV and ginger and is a great swap for your regular, sugary soft drink. Full of antioxidants, live cultures and organic acids, Remedy Switchel is: Sugar free, for real. All Natural.