Apple cider vinegar is made from apple juice and involves a two-stage fermentation process. The first stage converts sugars to ethanol (an alcohol) by adding yeast. The second stage converts the alcohol into acetic acid, giving the vinegar its strong flavor.

“Liquid apple cider vinegar contains the ‘mother,’ which has beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and protein, while many apple cider vinegar pills may not contain the ‘mother,’” Soans says.

Does apple cider vinegar live up to the hype? This is everything you need to know before you pour yourself a glass.