The Benefits of Vinegar

A range of vinegars at a stall

Hmm, when the word 'vinegar' comes to mind, the sensation you feel on your tongue is this overpowering sense of sourness, are we right? Well, despite the sourness, vinegar is actually good for you.

According to doctoroz.com, vinegars contain anti-oxidants, which lower the risk of cancer and allay premature aging, among others. According to the same site, vinegar also boosts blood sugar levels. Based on a study done in 2004, people who were insulin resistant or had type 2 diabetes had improved insulin sensitivity when they consumed apple cider vinegar before a high-carbohydrate meal. An improvement in insulin sensitivity simply means that the rate of blood sugar levels rising after such a meal could be slowed down.

Another study conducted in 2010 showed that consuming balsamic vinegar protects the health of your heart. What that type of vinegar does is actually restrict the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is believed to lead to atherosclerosis. What is atherosclerosis, you ask? It is a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, leading to blocked blood flow and eventually a heart attack or stroke.

According to a 2014 research, vinegar's ingredient—acetic acid—acts as a non-toxic disinfectant against drug-resistant tuberculosis bacteria. Acetic acid decreases the pH of the tissue lining the throat, thus curbing bacteria from growing on its surface. This antibacterial property can help fight the infection behind a sore throat.

As they are a rich source of polyphenols, vinegars can help cut down the risk of cancer. This is based on a research conducted in 2006 where it was found that consuming polyphenols improves antioxidant protection and lessens the risk of cancer.

Lastly, vinegar can help you lose weight, if you use it as a dressing for your salads instead of the usual commercial salad dressing.

A word of caution, though. The enamel on your teeth can be eroded over time if you overconsume vinegar and not rinse out your mouth.

On Brand Street, we sell a line of vinegars under the brand Taijun. To know more, click here.

Taijun Plum & Black Jujube Vinegar