Balsamic vinegar has great healing properties, affecting many digestive enzymes. Amylase is involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates and pepsin in the breakdown of protein. Balsamic vinegar contains bioactive compounds that inhibit the activity of amylase and pepsin, which slows down both protein digestion and carbohydrate digestion. This also increases the rate of fat digestion, causing a feeling of fullness, which in turn significantly reduces appetite.
Balsamic vinegar also has antimicrobial effects, which is why it can be very effective in treating infections such as infected wounds. The acetic acid it contains inhibits the growth of certain bacteria.
Balsamic vinegar can also be useful for people suffering from diabetes or insulin resistance, as it stimulates insulin secretion and lowers blood sugar levels, which in turn prevents hyperglycaemia. If you want to control blood sugar levels, take balsamic vinegar before or during meals.
Antioxidants are bioactive compounds that affect physiological processes. Antioxidants effectively reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases by counteracting proteins, lipids and free radicals that damage cells. Balsamic vinegar also contains many antioxidants such as catechins, polyphenols and phenolic acids. Catechins, for example, prevent the formation of free radicals and inhibit the physiological effects of ageing.
Balsamic vinegar has a prominent role in regulating blood pressure by inhibiting the production of a hormone that constricts blood vessels. By limiting the production of this hormone, it is possible to dilate blood vessels and thus reduce blood pressure.
Balsamic vinegar also has a positive effect on lipid metabolism, as its regular consumption reduces triglyceride levels and the bad cholesterol, LDL cholesterol. Balsamic vinegar is also full of valuable polyphenolic compounds that reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and prevent oxidised LDL cholesterol from entering the bloodstream.
Balsamic vinegar also acts as a great calcium channel blocker, which means it reduces the risk of blood clots and the risk factors for platelet aggregation. Balsamic vinegar also helps the muscle cells in blood vessels to contract, which has the effect of dilating the arteries and improving circulation.
