3 Healthy Reasons to Use Red Wine Vinegar

A key ingredient in our favorite salad dressings, panzanellas, and even gardening hacks, red wine vinegar is a pantry staple for many of us. And like its cousin apple cider vinegar, you might have heard that it has a plethora of health benefits. Red wine vinegar connoisseurs laud the condiment for its positive impacts on everything from heart health to skin care. But are all of these claims supported by doctors? Read on to learn more about what nutrition experts have to say about red wine vinegar’s role in our diets.

What is Red Wine Vinegar?

Red wine vinegar is made through the fermentation of red wine. Its sour taste makes it a kitchen favorite, adding tang to marinades, sauces, and all sorts of recipes. Since red wine vinegar is made up of acetic acid—like all vinegar—it’s also a great addition to homemade cleaning products, since it’s strong enough to cut through tough grime.

Health Benefits of Red Wine Vinegar

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Research suggests a relationship between red wine vinegar intake and reduced fasting blood glucose levels. The acetic acid in vinegar can help slow down carbohydrate digestion, making the release of glucose into the bloodstream happen more gradually, according to Dr. Maria Knobel.

That means consuming red wine vinegar before a carb-rich meal, like a bowl of pasta or a baked potato, can help lower blood sugar levels. “This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, as it helps maintain more stable blood glucose levels throughout the day,” says Dr. Knobel, adding that this can help fend off cravings and fatigue sparked by blood sugar spikes.

Increases Heart Functionality

The antioxidants found in red wine vinegar—namely resveratrol, which is found in red grapes—are believed to aid heart functionality, says Dr. Knobel. “Some studies have suggested that regular consumption of vinegar may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.”

Reduces the Chance of Blood Clots

Red wine vinegar also contains polyphenols, which can help reduce the body’s chance of developing blood clots, says Dr. Knobel. However, more research needs to be conducted to fully understand this correlation.

Debunking Myths About Red Wine Vinegar

While studies do indicate that red wine vinegar can aid in lowering blood sugar and promoting heart health, the condiment can’t be viewed as an end-all, be-all solution for cardiovascular wellness. It might be part of a healthy diet, but it’s no substitute for meaningful lifestyle changes and meds prescribed by your doctor. “Managing blood pressure typically requires a comprehensive approach, including diet, exercise, and sometimes medication, rather than relying on a single food item,” Knobel says. While red wine vinegar offers many promised benefits, it’s likely not a magic elixir.

It Doesn’t Cure Chronic Diseases

One harmful myth about red wine vinegar is that it can cure cancer. “While red wine vinegar contains antioxidants like polyphenols, which have been shown to reduce cancer risk in some studies, claiming it can cure cancer is a significant overstatement,” says Dr. Knobel.

It Won’t Detoxify Your Body

The word “detox” is frequently thrown around in connection with red wine vinegar. According to Knobel, this is another grift. “The human body has its own efficient detoxification systems, primarily the liver and kidneys, which do not require any assistance from dietary supplements or specific foods."