How can vinegar in pickled mustard greens affect blood sugar?
Recently, information about eating pickled mustard greens before meals to help control blood sugar has attracted the attention of many people, especially those with diabetes or insulin resistance. According to initial studies, the key factor is not in the pickled mustard greens themselves but in the acetic acid in vinegar, the main component of pickled foods.
According to Mr. Jonathan Purtell - a nutritionist at NYU Langone Health Center (USA): "Acetic acid in vinegar can slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, thereby helping to limit blood sugar spikes after meals.
Acetic acid can slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, helping glucose to be absorbed slowly instead of increasing rapidly in the blood. At the same time, this compound also has the ability to inhibit some carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and improve the body's insulin sensitivity. This helps cells use glucose more efficiently, contributing to stabilizing blood sugar.
Some small studies also recorded that using vinegar in meals can help improve blood sugar on an empty stomach and after meals, especially in people with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.
Do not abuse it, need to use it properly
Although it brings positive signs, experts warn that the effectiveness of pickled mustard greens in controlling blood sugar is still limited and should not be seen as a medical treatment alternative.
In fact, the acetic acid content in pickled mustard greens is usually lower than in pure vinegar, so the effect may not be obvious if only eaten in small quantities. This method tends to be more effective when used with meals rich in starch or foods with a high glycemic index.
Mr. Jonathan Purtell emphasized: "The addition of vinegar or pickled foods should only be seen as a supporting part of the diet, and cannot replace other treatments or blood sugar controls.
In addition, consuming too much pickled mustard greens also poses risks. This food often contains high levels of salt, which can affect blood pressure and cardiovascular health. In addition, vinegar, if used excessively, can cause stomach irritation or interact with certain drugs.
Experts recommend that if you want to apply this method, users should use it in moderation and combine it with a balanced diet, rich in fiber, low in sugar and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
In general, pickled mustard greens can bring certain benefits in controlling blood sugar, but they need to be used properly and with advice from experts to ensure safety and long-term effectiveness.
