Is vinegar the next superfood?

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Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : May 25, 2014 3:02 PM IST

vinegarBetween the balsamic, sherry and red wine vinegars on our salads and the alcohol vinegars in our cleaning products, the applications for the acidic liquid are virtually endless. But can vinegar be considered a health food?

A report published by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) in the Journal of Food Science shows that certain types of vinegar could actually offer significant health benefits.

According to the studies cited in the article, vinegar is rich in antioxidants, which could reduce accelerated ageing and even slow the development of certain cancers or degenerative brain disorders. The authors of the report also point to vinegar's antibacterial properties, its ability to reduce the effects of diabetes, and its contribution to improved cardiovascular health and blood pressure. Vinegar is also said to help athletes recuperate after intense physical effort.

Finally, the report notes that individuals who consume certain types of vinegar on a daily basis have been shown to have lower appetites: a finding that could be applied when developing weight loss plans for obese patients.

The authors at the IFT nonetheless indicated that further research will be necessary to validate any claims regarding vinegar's health benefits.

Some more benefits:

Scalp problems such as dandruff, athlete's foot, yeast infections can benefit from this natural remedy.

Vinegar can also be used as a cosmetic natural remedy to produce natural cures that help protect and beautify your skin!

Apple cider vinegar aids digestion, helps maintain weight.

It also helps keep blood pressure down.

It is also known to relieve congestion and maintain healthy skin.

With inputs from ANI

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