Red Wine Vinegar Health Benefits

Red wine vinegar has been used throughout history for medicinal and healing purposes. Science continues to discover and prove some benefits, while debunking others. Apple cider vinegar is known to have the most health benefits, but red wine vinegar still has many adherents. There is no question that red wine vinegar can be part of a healthful diet.

Healthful Eating

Replace fatty and cholesterol-rich sauces, condiments and marinades with red wine vinegar for healthful eating and to help with weight management. Red wine vinegars are typically low in, or have no, calories, carbohydrates or sodium. Use it on foods for the sharp flavor and as a way to decrease or eliminate the need for salt. Use red wine vinegar salad dressing instead of creamy or oil-rich dressings. Use red wine vinegar to marinate fish or meat dishes. Replace mayonnaise on sandwiches by marinating the meats or vegetables with red wine vinegar.

Cholesterol

All vinegars, because of their acetic acid content, are known to help control and lower cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels and blood pressure. Minimize the possibility of heart disease and keep blood flowing smoothly by taking vinegar regularly. Vinegar also has potassium, which helps lower blood pressure.

Diabetes

Take at least 2 tbsp. a day to help keep diabetic surges in check. Vinegars are known to lower glucose and insulin response and to decrease the diabetic's sensitivity to carbohydrates and starch.

Calcium Absorption

Because vinegars have acetic acid, they are able to boost the body's ability to absorb minerals, especially calcium. If you are lactose intolerant and worry that you are not getting enough calcium, try eating vinegar with dark-green, calcium-rich, leafy vegetables to allow for optimum mineral absorption.

Infections

Vinegars are widely thought to have topical uses and be able to cure certain infections, external and internal. In these cases apple cider vinegar is most often recommended. Use apple cider vinegar for skin issues such as acne, toenail fungus, lice and ringworm. Also refer to apple cider vinegar for antioxidant benefits.

Caution

Some health professionals question the benefits of vinegar for conditions such as cholesterol and diabetes, saying there is not enough scientific data to prove these benefits. Always consult your doctor before relying on or taking vinegars for medicinal purposes.

Tags: wine vinegar, cider vinegar, apple cider vinegar, acetic acid, apple cider, blood pressure, wine vinegar