Balsamic vinegar is a type of vinegar made in Italy. Real balsamic vinegar ages for 12 years in wooden barrels and has syrup like consistency. It is exceptionally rich with layers of flavor and can be used when cooking or making salad dressings. Balsamic vinaigrette salad dressings are made by combining the vinegar with oil for a healthy alternative to creamy dressings that contain higher fat and calories, along with preservatives and other ingredients. There is some controversy regarding balsamic vinegar due to possible lead content in some brands. Check with your midwife or obstetrician for dietary recommendations during pregnancy.
Lead Risk
The risk of lead exposure through the use of some balsamic vinegar came to light in 2002 when a lawsuit erupted in California. Some manufacturers of balsamic vinegar have their products tested to satisfy customers of the safety of their product. Not all balsamic vinegars have lead. When purchasing balsamic vinegar to make dressings, look for a brand that has their lead content information printed on the label. If you currently have a brand you like, contact the manufacturer for information regarding lead content in their product. Consumption of lead during pregnancy may lead to a low birth weight infant, as well as neurological and behavior development problems.
Labor Induction Myth
What To Expect explains that balsamic vinegar, along with spicy foods are rumored to help start labor in some women. There is no scientific evidence that balsamic vinegar can induce labor. With your doctor's approval, balsamic vinegar dressings may be used on salads and other foods during your pregnancy without fear of early labor.
Nutritional Relevance
Balsamic vinegar contains no fat or cholesterol and is low in sodium. When the vinegar and a healthy oil such as olive oil combine to make a vinaigrette dressing, the fat content increases due to the oil. It is essential to note that olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fatty acids. Many salad dressings on the market contain saturated fat that is unhealthy for your heart. Balsamic vinegar is high in sugar though, so women with gestational diabetes should limit using balsamic vinegar dressings to avoid blood sugar spikes.
Considerations
The safety of balsamic vinegar dressing during pregnancy, along with its healthfulness depends on the balsamic vinegar used. It also makes a difference whether you make the dressing at home where you can control the ingredients used, or if you purchase the dressing premade. If you enjoy eating balsamic vinegar dressings, it is best to talk to your midwife, doctor or other healthcare provider to determine its safety during your pregnancy, especially in light of the lead controversy.
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