Vinegar is used in many diverse ways, from a cleaning product to a home remedy cure-all. Vinegar offers nutritional benefits as well. There are several different types of vinegar, such as apple cider, red wine, balsamic and distilled, and all are unique both in flavor and nutritional value. They all have something to offer to any diet.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is well known for its home-remedy uses--anything from treating nail fungus to using it as a throat gargle--but it has nutritional benefits as well. According to NutritionData, apple cider vinegar contains zero fat and no vitamins, but it does contain a few minerals: 1 tbsp. of cider vinegar contains 1 mg of calcium, 0.7 mg of magnesium, 1.2 mg of phosphorous and 10.8 mg of potassium. It also contains no carbs and only three calories, which is what makes it a dieter's favorite.
Red Wine Vinegar
Red wine vinegar also contains no fat, but it does contain a trace (less than 1 mg) of vitamin C. The minerals in 1 tbsp. of red wine vinegar are calcium (0.9 mg), iron (0.1 mg), magnesium (0.6 mg), phosphorous (1.2 mg) and potassium (5.8 mg). It also contains zero carbs and just less than three calories, making it a good addition to any diet. In addition, it imparts a richer and sweeter taste than apple cider vinegar.
Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar is a popular alternative to red wine and apple cider vinegar. It also contains no fat and vitamins, but it contains more calcium per 1 tbsp. (4.3 mg), iron (0.1 mg), magnesium (1.9 mg), phosphorus (3 mg) and potassium (17.9 mg). It also contains sodium (3.7 mg). An article in the January 2, 2002 edition of the "Washington Post" mentions that balsamic vinegar makes a great addition to recipes when a bit of sweetness is desired. Balsamic vinegar does contain 2.7 g of carbs, which are mainly all derived from the natural sugar of the balsam plant. The 14 calories per tablespoon that balsamic contains are all derived from the sugar as well.
Distilled Vinegar
Distilled vinegar is also known as "white" vinegar, as it is so clear in color. Distilled vinegar has even less to offer nutritionally than its counterparts. Its taste is tart, and it has no vitamins, protein or fat. It does offer a trace of a few minerals, however: 1 tbsp. of distilled vinegar contains 0.9 mg of calcium, 0.1 mg of magnesium, 0. 6 mg of phosphorus and 0.3 mg of potassium. With less than three calories, it does make a good addition to salad dressings when flavored with additional spices.
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