These Are The Health Benefits Of Vinegar

You probably already know that apple cider vinegar has some health benefits, but is white vinegar good for you, too?

White vinegar is a common ingredient in cooking and cleaning, so it’s common to find it in kitchens around the world. But vinegar isn’t just good for flavoring certain dishes, making pickles, or baking; it can also provide some health benefits, though this doesn’t mean you should overuse it.

According to Healthline , white vinegar has long been used for medicinal purposes, and this is because it contains an essential component, acetic acid . And the best part is that you can reap its benefits by using vinegar in salad dressings, sauces, or by eating pickled foods, like gherkins.

What are the health benefits of vinegar?

“Ancient records from China, the Middle East, and Greece describe vinegar for medicinal purposes: as a digestive aid, an antibacterial balm for wound healing, and a cough treatment. Today, vinegar is often touted as a multipurpose treatment for all kinds of ailments, from minor to chronic,” says the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, adding that while some small studies have been conducted, more are needed to fully confirm vinegar’s benefits.

Healthline says some benefits of white vinegar include:

• Blood sugar control: Some small studies have shown that consuming vinegar with meals can help reduce blood sugar and regulate insulin levels.
• Weight management: Some studies indicate that vinegar helps increase feelings of fullness and slows the rate at which your stomach empties, which will prevent you from overeating.

It is antimicrobial : Vinegar can help treat physical conditions, such as ear infections, and skin infections and burns.

For its part, Livestrong indicates that there are other important benefits:

• It has ingredients with antioxidant properties, which protect your cells from damage and can help reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
• It may help promote heart health, and some of its compounds may also help reduce blood pressure.
• Vinegar supplements can help increase good cholesterol and reduce bad cholesterol.
• You can use it as a non-toxic and non-harmful disinfectant, whether you’re washing dishes, using the bathroom, or killing bacteria that build up on your toothbrush.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that vinegar should be consumed in moderation and, because it has a strong flavor (and a distinctive smell), you should use it carefully, preferably in combination with other ingredients, whether for cooking or cleaning. Livestrong indicates that consuming too much vinegar can have some negative effects, such as stomach pain, esophageal irritation, and even damage to your tooth enamel (which is why you shouldn’t take it directly).

Additionally, keep in mind that other types of vinegar can also provide benefits, such as apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and rice vinegar, which is a common ingredient in Asian cuisine.

Healthline recommends consulting a doctor before adding vinegar to your routine or diet to ensure the correct use and to avoid problems. It’s generally safe for everyone to consume, but it’s important to use it correctly and without excess.