Balsamic vinegar, made from white grapes, makes a sharp salad dressing and culinary component. For thousands of years, balsamic vinegar and similar types have also been used for medicinal purposes. Although vinegar is healthy in moderation, too much may be harmful. The highly acidic nature of the vinegar may cause tooth and throat problems. Additionally, some products contain lead, which can lead to a variety of health problems.
Drug Interactions
Balsamic vinegar, like other types of vinegar, is produced through oxidation of fermented liquids. Highly acidic, vinegar products made in the United States contain a minimum of 4 percent acidity. Because different types of vinegar are so similar in structure, they offer some of the same benefits and side effects. Since apple cider vinegar may interact with certain medications or supplements, including diuretics and insulin, you should talk to your doctor before using balsamic vinegar to be sure it is safe.
Throat Irritation
Although uncommon, some people have experienced throat irritation and burning while swallowing balsamic vinegar. Researchers at Arizona State University Department of Nutrition report that a 39-year old woman who drank 1 tablespoon of vinegar experienced a second-degree caustic injury and inflammation of the throat. Researchers conclude that injuries of this nature are rare, but possible.
Dental Erosion
Dental erosion is possible with consumption of highly acidic substances, such as balsamic vinegar. The “ASDC Journal of Dentistry for Children” reports that in a United Kingdom child dental health survey, dental erosion was a common factor among children who consumed acidic food and drinks, including fruit and vinegar. These children also drank less milk and water than those in controlled groups, which likely also played a role in enamel erosion.
Lead Dangers
A November 2009 special report appearing in Environmental Health News warns that balsamic vinegar and similar aged vinegars may contain dangerous levels of lead. Although vinegar contains only small amounts of lead, people who consume it regularly could be at risk for lead poisoning and subsequent complications. Balsamic vinegar is particularly threatening to children because just 1 tablespoon daily can raise a child’s lead level by more than 30 percent.
References
- MedGenMed; Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect; Carol S. Johnston, PhD, et al.; May 2006
- MayoClinic.com; Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss: Effective?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.; April 2010
- “ASDC Journal of Dentistry for Children”; A Comparison of Acidic Dietary Factors in Children With and Without Dental Erosion; O’Sullivan EA, et al.; May 2000
- Environmental Health News; Special Report: Some Vinegars -- Often Expensive, Aged Balsamics -- Contain a Big Dose of Lead; Jane Kay; November 2009
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