By Danny DeCota
Balsamic vinegar originates from Italy as is known for its ability to decelerate the aging process, control diabetes, and aid with digestion. This aromatic, thick, syrup-like kind of vinegar is made from grape pressings and prepared by reducing cooked grapes. These days, Modena balsamic vinegar prepared in the hills of Modena in Italy where extraordinary and flavorful versions are made. While regular vinegars has a sharp taste, balsamic vinegar has a rich, sweet flavor.
Today, balsamic vinegar is one of the most popular condiments in grocery stores. It is used in different sauces, salad dressings, marinades, and desserts. Aside from its remarkable taste, the vinegar is known for its health benefits including the following:
Increase Circulation
The cardiovascular system depends on being able to move blood through the body freely. Balsamic vinegar prevents blood platelets from gathering and clogging which can cause cardiovascular problems.
Fight Cancer
Balsamic vinegar is made from grapes known to contain a bioflavonoid called quercetin, which has antioxidant properties. Together with vitamin C, the antioxidant boosts the immune system to fight cancer and other infectious diseases and body inflammations. Also, balsamic vinegar has anticancer agents called polyphenols.
Stabilize Blood Sugar
Vinegar helps keep the blood glucose levels normal. Its glycemic level makes it a good addition to the diet of people with diabetes who need to avoid sugar spikes. Indeed, vinegar consumption can help the body regulate the blood sugar for up to five hours. Balsamic vinegar is a great addition for insulin sensitivity.
Relieve Pain
In ancient times, folk healers used balsamic vinegar to relieve people of body pains. Also, this vinegar is used for treating infections and wounds because it has antibacterial and anti-viral properties.
Assist Digestion
The vinegar’s polyphenol content stimulates the activity of pepsin enzyme in the body. This digestive enzyme helps break proteins into smaller units called amino acids. Also, polyphenols assist the intestine in the absorption of amino acids, to ensure the body uses it for cell building, repair, and other tasks for body maintenance.
Lower Cholesterol
High cholesterol can be harmful as it can block the arteries. Balsamic vinegar helps lower the bad cholesterol in the body and prevent further arterial damage.
Aside from the benefits mentioned above, balsamic vinegar is also known to reduce the frequency of headaches, strengthen bones by stimulating calcium absorption, increase the body’s energy levels, prevent anemia, and slow down the aging process. Also, it helps people lose weight by suppressing their appetite.
