Vinegar how many calories

The alcohol is then exposed to oxygen and the acetic acid bacteria Acetobacter to ferment again over weeks or months, forming vinegar. The U. Although acetic acid is responsible for the tart and pungent flavors and odors we recognize, vinegar also contains trace vitamins, mineral salts, amino acids, and polyphenolic compounds [1].

Flavors range from sour to savory to sweet. Some vinegars, such as balsamic, can be left to ferment up to 25 years. Early records from China, the Middle East, and Greece describe vinegar for medicinal purposes: as a digestive aid, an antibacterial balm to dress wounds, and treatment for cough. Today, vinegar is often touted as an all-purpose treatment for everything from minor ailments to chronic diseases.

To be clear, existing scientific research does not support the use of vinegar as an effective treatment for any of these conditions. However, some animal studies and small human studies have suggested a health benefit from vinegar, which has fueled its popularity in mainstream media.

Diabetes Can vinegar lower blood sugar? Those with diabetes or prediabetes are eager to know the answer. A handful of human studies have produced conflicting results, with small sample sizes of a dozen or fewer participants. These studies are difficult to compare because of differences in study design: healthy subjects versus those with insulin resistance or diabetes; when and how much vinegar was taken; the carbohydrate content of meals; and a diet that was high versus low glycemic index.

These factors may have independently caused either an increase or decrease in blood sugar or insulin levels. One theory is that vinegar interferes with the digestion of carbohydrates by blocking enzymes that break down them down. This delay in digestion might produce less of a blood sugar spike after eating or a greater feeling of fullness.

Other possible actions are slowing the production of glucose by the liver or more efficient use of insulin in people who are insulin-resistant. Larger long-term trials with a more uniform study design are needed before making recommendations.

Weight loss If vinegar causes a delay in digestion and stomach emptying, this might produce a feeling of fullness when eating, thereby causing one to eat less. Other theories suggest a direct effect on fat metabolism. One animal study found that acetic acid protected rats from developing abdominal fat and prevented excess storage of fat in the liver. However, when comparing the whole body of research on vinegar and body weight, primarily animal studies, there is not consistent evidence to show a benefit.

Cancer Vinegar contains polyphenols, plant chemicals that have an antioxidant effect that may protect cells from oxidative stress, a possible stimulator of tumor growth. Cell and mouse studies suggest that vinegar may prevent the growth of cancer cells or cause tumor cells to die.

However, there is a lack of research in humans showing a benefit of vinegar with this disease. Gastrointestinal Even though vinegar is produced by fermentation, it is surprisingly not a probiotic food that contains beneficial bacteria. However, certain vinegars like apple cider vinegar which contains pectin may act as a prebiotic , or food for beneficial bacteria. Vinegar has been taken as a home remedy to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

If GERD is caused by a stomach condition of too low acid, a theory is that taking vinegar may increase stomach acid and improve digestion. Another theory is that vinegar can help to lower blood pH to a more acidic environment that destroys harmful pathogens in the gut. There is no published research that supports these theories. Furthermore, there can be side effects of taking too much vinegar at once in concentrated form, including stomach upset and irritation of the esophagus.

Its high acid content can erode tooth enamel. Vinegar is low in calories and nutrients. Depending on the type, one tablespoon of vinegar contains anywhere from 2 to 15 calories. The lowest calorie versions like distilled vinegar have no nutrient value; others contain trace amounts of nutrients. Aged White Wine Vinegar.

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