When you’re aiming to step up your health game, vinegar probably doesn’t top your list of things to stock up on in your pantry. But recent research is proving that this inconspicuous condiment might actually be at the forefront of a health-conscious diet.
Blood Sugar
A recent study suggests adding two teaspoons of vinegar to any meal may improve blood sugar control, effectively blunting the blood sugar spike after a meal by about 20 percent.
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Originally, researchers had praised vinegar for its effects on slowing stomach emptying, but now they’re finding consuming vinegar even outside of meals is beneficial. Another study found type 2 diabetics consuming two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar at bedtime were found to wake up with better blood sugars in the morning.
PCOS
Vinegar has also been found to help with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). A daily tablespoon of apple cider vinegar repaired ovarian function within a few months in four out of seven women with PCOS. And a tablespoon of rice vinegar was found to acutely improve artery function in postmenopausal women.
Weight Loss
Maintaining a healthy weight is a concern that affects many of us — and vinegar may be the answer! Participants in the aforementioned study who consumed vinegar daily lost a significant amount of their visceral fat, the abdominal fat that is typically associated with chronic disease risk.
Incorporate Vinegar Into Your Diet
If your mind only goes to balsamic vinegar, think outside the box. Make this savory chile, cilantro and garlic vinegar, purchase flavor-infused vinegars to experiment with or try this delicious fruit-infused vinegar.
And if the thought of downing a spoonful of vinegar makes you cringe, aim to incorporate it into your everyday foods, like honeydew relish salad or chicken with vinegar.
