There are many dos and don’ts during pregnancy, likewise, some may wonder “Is red wine vinegar safe during pregnancy or not. Read on to find out.
What is Red Wine Vinegar?
Red wine vinegar is made by fermenting red wine. Bacteria convert the alcohol into acetic acid, which gives it a very intense flavor. After fermentation, it is strained and aged to make it taste less severe. The red wine vinegar is then bottled and can be used in recipes. This has a tangy flavor and is a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine.
You can use it in salad dressings, marinades, pickles, meat, and vegetable dishes. Industries dilute it with water to make facial toner in cosmetic products to treat sunburns and soothe skin irritations.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
Red wine vinegar contains micronutrients sodium and potassium and provides certain health benefits. It helps lower blood sugar levels and increases insulin sensitivity. When used in recipes, it reduces the glycaemic index of the food. It has antioxidants that help fight infections and lower the risk of skin cancer. Potent antioxidants like resveratrol and anthocyanins protect your body cells from damage due to free radicals and boost your immunity. This prevents the development of chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, or heart disease.
Acetic acid and resveratrol help prevent blood clots, lower cholesterol, fight inflammation, relax blood vessels, and lower blood pressure, thereby maintaining your heart health. Acetic acid helps burn fat and lowers appetite and aids in weight loss.
Side Effects of Red Wine Vinegar
Excess or long-term consumption of red wine vinegar can cause undesirable side effects. It can worsen digestive problems like heartburn, nausea, and indigestion. It interferes with certain blood pressure medications by lowering blood pressure even further. The acetic acid can also erode tooth enamel. As a result, it is best to use red wine vinegar in moderation.
Is Red Wine Vinegar Safe During Pregnancy?
Pregnant women should avoid alcohol. Red wine vinegar has its alcohol content converted into acetic acid by fermentation. When consumed in moderation, it offers potential health benefits during pregnancy like preventing urinary tract infections, curing acne, treating indigestion, heartburn, and nausea, and offering antioxidant benefits. But it can still cause premature birth, miscarriage, stillbirth, fetal alcohol syndrome, congenital disabilities, physical abnormalities, or mental retardation if consumed in excess.
Red wine vinegar can also interfere with some of the drugs prescribed during pregnancy. It is can cause gum irritation in some cases. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the consumption of red wine vingera and/or any other alcoholic beverage during pregnancy.
Safer Substitutes for Red Wine Vinegar
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is non-alcoholic and can be used in the same proportion as red wine vinegar to flavor dishes. It has anti-bacterial properties which help fight infections during pregnancy. Lime juice and lemon add acidity to foods and promote hydration and digestion.
2. Rice Wine Vinegar
Rice wine vinegar is non-alcoholic and has immunity-boosting and also antiseptic properties. You can substitute it for red wine vinegar in an equal ratio.
3. Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar made from crushed grape juice is tart, bitter, and has a nil alcohol content. It is high in antioxidants and can be used in the same proportion as red wine vinegar.
4. Tamarind Paste
Tamarind paste is a natural, safe substitute for red wine vinegar in marinating meat. It is rich in vitamins, fiber, and minerals and also adds a tangy flavor to dishes.
5. Red Grape Juice
Red grape juice is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which help boost immunity. It is also very similar to red wine vinegar in taste and color and makes a good substitute for it.
6. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice lends rich color, flavor, tartness, and acidity to dishes. It has inflammation-fighting properties and also treats urinary tract infections.
7. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is rich in vitamins C and A and other health-beneficial nutrients. It also adds flavor and acidity to dishes and can be substituted for red wine vinegar in the same proportion.
8. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice adds excellent flavor and aroma to food. To enhance its acidity, You can add a little vinegar to it. It is high in antioxidants and also offers heart protection.
Avoid the consumption of red wine vinegar during pregnancy and opt for any of the above safe alternatives rather. If you still suspect the consumption of any of the mentioned beverages, consult your doctor beforehand.