7 health benefits of white vinegar

MediBuddy
MediBuddy

Historically, white vinegar was produced from the fermentation of foods such as potatoes, molasses or milk whey. In recent times, most white vinegar is made from the fermentation of grain alcohol (ethanol). Not just a powerhouse household cleaner, white vinegar can preserve vegetables and works wonders for your health. Here are the beneficial properties of white vinegar that you should know:

Lowers Cholesterol

White vinegar can effectively reduce your risk of cardiovascular diseases by bringing down the cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If you consume a tablespoon of white vinegar with your meal, it can also create a sense of fullness that could cause you to eat less, so white vinegar is known for its anti-obesity effects.

Reduces risk of Hypertension

White vinegar has anti-hypertensive effect. Obese people are at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension). The acetic acid content of vinegar is beneficial and works by relaxing the blood vessels.

Good for Diabetes

There are positive health effects of consuming white vinegar daily. It helps improve blood glucose response, which is ideal for diabetic patients. White vinegar helps people with type 2 diabetes use their insulin more effectively, it improves post-meal blood sugar levels. It could prevent type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals.

Upper-Respiratory Effects

White vinegar is good for curing a sore throat. You may gargle with 1 tablespoon of vinegar mixed with 8 ounces of water. You can also add some vinegar to a vapouriser that can help break up chest congestion.

Antibacterial

White vinegar's antibacterial properties make it very useful for treating facial blemishes. You may soak cotton balls in  some white vinegar and apply. The acetic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids in white vinegar help it function efficiently as a toner, it helps in tightening pores and leaves a fresh feeling. It also has anti-fungal effects and is useful to treat various fungal infections.

Anti-Burn Effects

White vinegar is used to treat and soothe a variety of skin burns and inflammations, including abrasions, minor cuts, rashes, insect stings and sunburn. Since white vinegar acts as the astringent, it prevents infection caused due to the burn. Make sure that you don't use vinegar directly on the burns, always dilute it in water.

Anti-Dandruff Uses

A dry, itchy scalp leads to dandruff, and white vinegar can help soothe your scalp and prevent dandruff. Stir 1/2 cup of vinegar in 2 cups of water and rinse your hair with this mixture after shampooing.

Conclusion:
White vinegar typically consists of 4–7% acetic acid and 93–96% water. It can be used for cooking, baking, cleaning and can be consumed for several health benefits. Consumption is safe in moderation but could be dangerous in excess amounts and may cause gastrointestinal problems. So always keep a bottle of white vinegar in your pantry and you may find it useful every now and then.