Vinegar is an acidic and pungent liquid with various practical purposes. The name vinegar, meaning "sour wine," describes its flavor -- a sharp, unsweetened flavor. Although nearly any carbohydrate source can become vinegar through fermentation, the most well known types are white vinegar and apple cider vinegar. Talk to your doctor before attempting to treat a condition with vinegar.
White Vinegar versus Apple Cider Vinegar
White vinegar and apple cider vinegar differ in color, purpose and effect. White vinegar is mostly useful for cleansing, as a household disinfectant or as a vaginal flushing fluid. As a topical application, white vinegar is used to sooth skin burns, remove warts and treat fungal infections, such as athlete's foot. Apple cider vinegar is the type people consume as a health tonic. Both types of vinegar are made through fermentation: white vinegar comes from fermenting distilled alcohol, and apple cider comes from fermented apple cider.
Vinegar for Weight Loss
Among the many weight loss tips and tricks is the consumption of apple cider vinegar, a purported remedy for fat burning and satiety. Although some people sip this vinegar in small doses before meals, apple cider vinegar supplements are available over the counter as a simpler method for consumption. As for the efficacy of the product, Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D, says it's not likely to be effective.
Food Poisoning
Although apple cider vinegar is an unappealing beverage because of its tart and highly acidic characteristics, some people sip it several times daily for its antimicrobial effects. In fact, the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, says although it is not scientifically proven, apple cider vinegar may help relieve food poisoning. The UMMC recommends a mixture of 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup warm water several times daily. Talk to your doctor before using.
Vinegar Nutrition
Vinegar is a dietary source of polyphenols -- potent antioxidants that help increase immunity by fighting free radicals, or cell-damaging molecules. Consuming vinegar might help reduce your risk of disease and illness, although some side effects and cautions exist, such as throat irritation or damage to the digestive tract. Regular consumption may also deplete tooth enamel, causing dental complications. Apple cider vinegar may interact with certain drugs, such as diuretics and insulin. Talk to your doctor before consuming vinegar.
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