Think Healthy Thursday: Balsamic Vinegar vs. Vinaigrette - The Barre Code (2024)

FAQs

Which is healthier, balsamic vinegar or vinaigrette? ›

So the next time you're dressing a salad, reach for the balsamic vinegar–in the long run, not ingesting that extra fat and sugar makes a big difference!

Balsamic vinegar is pure vinegar. Balsamic vinegar is dark brown in color and has a very robust, slightly sweet flavor. Balsamic vinaigrette is a mixture made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt and/or other spices. It is typically used as a salad dressing but has other uses in the kitchen as well.

If you're looking to lose weight, balsamic vinegar might be a good choice for you. A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar contains around 12 calories and no fat. This makes it a low-calorie food that can help control blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss without cutting out any essential nutrients.

Heart health and blood pressure

Balsamic vinegar can reduce the concentration of triglycerides and total cholesterol in the body; these have been linked to heart attacks and stroke. Also, due to its low saturated fat content, balsamic vinegar is believed to enhance heart health and reduce high blood pressure.

Generally speaking, the healthiest salad dressing will be a vinaigrette like balsamic or oil and vinegar, while Caesar, ranch or anything with the word “creamy” will be the unhealthiest. The exception? We like products made with healthy swaps—think Greek yogurt in place of mayo or heavy cream.

Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

This bargain find is readily available in most stores and is great for adding a touch of acidity to a hearty tomato sandwich or a veggie-packed salad.

Distilled white vinegar is the one most often used in cleaning, for its antibacterial properties. It's made from feeding oxygen to a vodka-like grain alcohol, causing bacteria to grow and acetic acid to form.

Which vinegar has the most polyphenols? ›

Fruit vinegars are rich in polyphenols that can be a good dietary source of AGEs inhibitors. In this study, eight kinds of vinegars were prepared. Among them, the highest polyphenol and flavonoid content were orange vinegar and kiwi fruit vinegar, respectively.

Proponents of apple cider vinegar claim that it has numerous health benefits and that drinking a small amount or taking a supplement before meals helps curb appetite and burn fat.

Is it OK to eat balsamic vinegar every day? Consuming balsamic vinegar daily in moderate amounts is generally safe and can even be part of a healthy diet. However, like any condiment, moderation is key. Balsamic vinegar's intense flavor means a little goes a long way, so avoid overusing it.

The nutritionist further mentions that most creamy sauces are loaded with hidden salt and sugar. These may also contain synthetic preservatives and cholesterol spiking hydrogenated fats. Adding cheese and croutons to a salad will also add unnecessary calories and ingredients to food.

Last but not least, consuming balsamic vinegar can have an anti-inflammatory effect as well. Long-term, high levels of inflammation can be extremely detrimental to your health, and research shows inflammation plays a role in whether you develop chronic conditions, diseases, and even cancer.

Both types of vinegar provide minor sources of minerals, including healthful amounts of potassium. Balsamic provides 18mg of potassium per tablespoon, while apple cider only has 11mg. Balsamic's antioxidants also help lower LDL cholesterol, while apple cider works similarly to lower lower blood lipid levels.

Lemon Juice, Molasses and Soy Sauce

This combination may sound unconventional, but it hits all the right notes to achieve a pretty solid substitute for balsamic vinegar. Lemon juice offers acidity, molasses imparts color and sweetness and soy sauce infuse the optimal dose of umami into every drop.

The experts recommend opting for “extra virgin olive oil” or EVOO, as this is the least processed and typically cold-pressed which retains more nutrients and flavor.