Incredible Health Benefits Of Balsamic Vinegar
Vinegars have been used for decades for their astringent and disinfectant properties. In addition, they also have been used as a preservative and flavoring in prepared food. Balsamic Vinegar has a wealth of benefits beyond those traditional uses of vinegar.
Years ago, Balsamic Vinegar was said to be a miracle cure. In addition, it is believed that the word originated from the Italian word for balm because it was used as a healing aid. Balsamic Vinegar was used to treat everything from a mild headache to labor pains.
Its antibacterial and antiviral properties make it perfect for disinfecting wounds and infections. A tonic mixture of Balsamic Vinegar has been used on nail infections and even acne as well.
In addition to its complex and flavorful taste profile and suitability as a food ingredient, Traditional Balsamic Vinegar provides a handful of health benefits.
Antioxidants
Polyphenol is an antioxidant found in grapes and is therefore present and then concentrated in balsamic vinegar. Antioxidants improve the immune system and they guard against harmful free radicals which can damage cells in the body. Balsamic vinegar can also help protect against heart disease and cancer thanks to these antioxidants.
Another element discovered in Balsamic Vinegar is a bioflovanoid, also called quercetin, which has antioxidant properties and aids in fighting immunity deficiencies.
Melanoidin is an antioxidant that is also discoverable in Balsamic Vinegar. It has been known to assist with free radical scavenging as well as chelating excess iron ions from the blood. Fe2+ is a form of iron that is necessary for some bodily functions but can be harmful if too much is allowed to build up in the body.
Digestion
Traditional Balsamic Vinegar is well known in Italy as a digestive aid. We suggest that you try sipping it directly from a spoon or mix a small amount of it with sparkling water.
Maintaining A Healthy Weight
Balsamic Vinegar can suppress appetite and also increases the amount of time it takes for the stomach to empty. This ultimately helps prevent overeating and ensures the body will digest food properly.
Additionally, Balsamic Vinegar is a rich source of potassium, manganese, calcium and iron. These minerals are vital for the body’s functioning and contribute to maintaining a healthy body weight. The acetic acid in Balsamic Vinegar aids in absorbing these and other minerals into the body.
Balsamic Vinegar is also low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium, making it a healthy alternative for dressings and marinades.
Diabetes
Balsamic Vinegar helps improves insulin sensitivity which aids in promoting blood sugar regulation. This can often reduce unpleasant side effects of high and low blood sugar levels associated with diabetes.
Improved Metabolism
The polyphenols in Balsamic Vinegar boost the effect of pepsin which is an enzyme that breaks protein into smaller amino acids. This generally means that the amino acids are more easily absorbed into the body improving metabolism.
Bone Health
Pepsin and acetic acid both assist in improving absorption of essential minerals into the body such as calcium and magnesium.
Both of these minerals are abundant in Balsamic Vinegar and are essential for healthy and strong bones. In addition, acetic acid can also improve calcium intake to help strengthen bone.