The benefits of vinegar have been recognized for centuries, and a lot of research has gone into this topic. In fact, vinegar has long been used as a cure for what ails you, and its use dates back to the ancient Greeks when it was a common remedy for wounds, cuts, coughing, and more. Today, it continues to be offered up as a cure-all, but it's important to avoid getting caught up in the belief that it is a miracle drug that prevents you from getting sick. More specifically, the benefits of balsamic vinegar have become a hot topic in many circles.
We offer three kinds of vinegar at McEvoy Ranch; a Pinot Noir Vinegar, a Champagne Vinegar and a 15 Year Aged Balsamic Vinegar from Modena, Italy. They each have specific flavor profile and uses, and you can find many tips and recipes for our vinegars in the EAT section of our online resources library.
There are many reasons to make vinegars a part of a healthy diet; here are some suggestions for using balsamic vinegar.
As with any other natural cure, balsamic vinegar must be used in moderation while also striving to improve your health through proper diet, rest, and exercise. That being said, balsamic vinegar health benefits are real and include the ability to help get your blood lipids and blood sugar under control. Doing so can improve your health in many areas, including your cardiovascular system and weight control.
Is Balsamic Vinegar Healthy?
A look at balsamic vinegar's nutrition clearly portrays it as a low-calorie, low-fat, low-sugar food source. Is balsamic vinegar healthy to eat? Yes. A single tablespoon contains only fourteen calories and under three grams of carbohydrates. The fat content is negligible, creating an excellent low-fat option to include in dressings and sauces.
The rich taste of balsamic vinegar includes a sweetness that makes it palatable and delicious. It is widely used in salad dressings and marinades, as well as in a variety of recipes for stews, soups, and fruit dishes. Balsamic vinegar comes from unfermented grape pressings or must, so it is not a wine vinegar even though it is aged in barrels. Balsamic vinegar needs to be stored in a dark, cool area of the cupboard or pantry and can keep indefinitely when stored properly.
What are the Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar?
The findings of various scientific studies regarding balsamic vinegar health benefits suggest that it helps to create stable levels of cholesterol and blood sugar. Balsamic vinegar contains antioxidants that target and destroy radical cells that are responsible for raising unhealthy cholesterol levels, effectively lowering blood lipid levels while also helping to keep your arteries unclogged. Balsamic vinegar benefits the body through its ability to act as an anti-glycemic agent and maintain stable blood sugar levels after meals. Although more research is needed, some studies suggest that the benefits of balsamic vinegar include helping to normalize blood pressure levels, aiding in digestion, and minimizing weight gain.
A Healthy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
A healthy balsamic vinaigrette recipe is easy to make as long as you pay attention to the ingredients you choose. Begin with one-third to one-half cup each of balsamic vinegar and Extra Virgin olive oil. Add a single teaspoon of whole grain mustard or prepared mustard, and a dash of ground pepper and sea salt. If your blood sugar levels are stable, you can even add in a tablespoon of honey for added sweetness. For the best results, choose quality ingredients over bargain-priced versions to enhance your balsamic vinaigrette nutritional value and flavor.
No matter how you look at it, some balsamic vinegar health benefits exist. Since it is low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates, balsamic vinegar provides a healthy option for anyone looking to minimize any of these substances in their diet.
