A native of Italy, balsamic vinegar is made by the reduction of Trebbiano grape juice. Primarily used as a condiment, it is thoroughly popular among chefs and food lovers owing to its ability to remarkably enhance the flavor and taste of any dish it is added to. The preparation of balsamic vinegar is almost an art in itself. The process involves slowly cooking Trebbiano juice on low heat to make it concentrated, and then preserving it in small barrels to be fermented and cured for 12 or more years. The end result in a thick, dark and sweet syrup-like condiment that is not only famous for its fascinating taste, but also for its immense health benefits.
Since balsamic vinegar is made from Trebbiano grape juice, it comprises all the nutrients present in the parent grapes. Some of the valuable nutrients present in balsamic vinegar include calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and manganese. If you are still not sure how this flavorful vinegar can contribute to the wellness of your health, here is a guide on balsamic vinegar nutrition:
Resists Cancer: The grapes that are used in the preparation of balsamic vinegar contain a bioflavonoid called quercetin having excellent antioxidant properties. This antioxidant effectively helps in strengthening the immune system to fight cancer and also to prevent other infectious diseases and inflammations. By improving the immune system, balsamic vinegar ensures better health and less susceptibility to illnesses.
Antioxidant Properties: Energy producing oxidation reactions occurring in the body gives rise to cell-damaging free radicals as natural by-products. These free radicals can effectively contribute to damaging cell membranes, thereby resulting in a number of complications such as premature aging, hardening of arterial walls and even cancer. The antioxidants present in balsamic vinegar eradicate the free radicals, thereby preventing the cell membranes from getting damaged. Balsamic vinegar is also known to be extremely effective in slowing down the aging process.
Lowers Risks of Heart Attack: Balsamic vinegar is low in cholesterol and saturated fat. So when it is used as a substitute for high-cholesterol dressings, it automatically contributes to an improved heart health. In addition, being low in sodium, balsamic vinegar helps in reducing blood pressure, thereby contributing to reduced risks of stroke and other heart problems.
Weight Control: Balsamic vinegar, with all its exceptional flavor and taste makes for an excellent salad dressing. When used as a substitute for high-fat salad dressings such as mayonnaise, it naturally contributes to reduced intake of calories. In addition, the acetic content in balsamic vinegar keeps a person feeling full for a longer time, preventing them from indulging in frequent meals. All this contributes effectively to weight control.
Worldwide, balsamic vinegar is considered one of the most popular condiments used in various salad dressings, sauces, marinades, dips, desserts and more. The immense popularity of this dark, thick and sweet syrup-like condiment can not only be attributed to its fascinating taste and flavor, but also to the immense health benefits it presents to its consumers. However, to ensure benefiting from balsamic vinegar nutrition, it is important that you pick up the best-quality balsamic vinegar from the market.
By: peter thronto
