It has been claimed that it is possible to control and lower blood sugar levels, simply by taking some vinegar.
 
This is good news for diabetics who expeience blood-sugar spikes following a big meal, with several studies revealing it is possible to reduce the impact of a carbohydrate-laden dish by adding a dash of vinegar.  Apparently, this helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream after a meal, because vinegar helps block digestive enzymes responsible for converting carbohydrates into sugar.
 
For example, one study by Italian researchers shows, consumption of 4-teaspoons (20-millilitres) of white vinegar by way of salad dressing with a meal that also includes white bread with less than two ounces (50-grams) of carbohydrates by healthy individuals, led to 30% reduction in their glycemic response, or rise in blood sugar, in comparison with study participants who had salad with a neutralised vinegar salad dressing.
 
In study published in Diabetes Care, a journal of the American Diabetes Association in 2004, also found similar effects in diabetic or insulin resistant people who consumed a vinegar solution or before a carbohydrate rich meal.
 
While, Sue McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the diabetes association avers that nothing can replace increased physical activity and portion control, however, diabetics may find taking vinegar worth a try.
 
As the studies show, a little vinegar may actually be good for the body.