Vinegar is a basic ingredient in all Spanish kitchens: although it is mostly used as a condiment to prepare salads, meats, fish, sauces, and other dishes, it is also used for eating. protect food such as cucumbers, pickled onions, or cabbage; For a clean house (as its acidity helps to remove dirt and stains) or to soften clothes (as a natural fabric softener).
In addition, it has also been used traditionally for medicinal purposes such as treating digestive problems such as heartburn and diarrhea, or as a home remedy for sore throats or insect bites.
Side effects of taking vinegar that very few people know
Even though it’s a staple of our diet And while it’s considered safe in most cases, vinegar also has a downside: its acidity. Can harm health if taken in excess or longer.
The consequences of consuming vinegar can be:
- Damage to tooth enamel: The acetic acid in vinegar can erode tooth enamel if consumed in large amounts or repeatedly. It is advised to dilute the vinegar in water or rinse your mouth with water after consuming it.
- Causes gastrointestinal irritation: Vinegar is acidic, and consuming it can cause gastrointestinal irritation in some people, especially if consumed in large amounts or on an empty stomach.
- Affects blood sugar control: Vinegar can lower the glycemic index of some foods and improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes, but it can also react with some diabetes medications and cause side effects in some people. May cause hypoglycemia.
Vinegar substitute that is increasingly being used
A better alternative to vinegar And what most people use every day is lemon: lemon juice is an acidic alternative to vinegar, which can be used to prepare salads and other dishes. Also, lemon is a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients. This spice can also be used in place of yogurt, kefir, or apple juice in some recipes.