floridian
08-30-2007, 09:14 AM
Interesting paper here titled "Anti-inflammatory properties of the short-chain fatty acids acetate and propionate: A study with relevance to inflammatory bowel disease" http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/13/2826.asp
Basically, it found that acetate (acetic acid), butyrate and proprionate are all rather good at reducing TNF, IL-6, and other cytokines that are overproduced in many inflammatory diseases. It says that these compounds have been used with some success to treat IBD. This gives a possible scientific explanation to the traditional practices of using vinegar for psoriasis.
Naturally fermented vinegars contain acetate and a fair dose of the butyrate and propionate, which are actually somewhat more effective in reducing cytokines. Fermented vinegars also contain microbes that may have a probiotic effect, or microbial proteins that have an effect on the immune system.
"Distilled vinegar" is distilled from petroleum or natural gas, and depending on how much it is distilled, may be pure acetic acid solution. It may have some beneficial effects, but it seems the real 'sour wine' is probably better.
I imagine it is possible to overdo it, but taking a moderate amount of vinegar is unlikely to have many side effects. Straight vinegar can dissolve the enamel from teeth if consumed regularly, and might irritate the skin if used undiluted. I'm adding a spoonful to a glass of water twice a day and using a dilute solution to rinse or soak.
Some types of fiber can also be fermented in the gut to form acetate and the related compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects.
Basically, it found that acetate (acetic acid), butyrate and proprionate are all rather good at reducing TNF, IL-6, and other cytokines that are overproduced in many inflammatory diseases. It says that these compounds have been used with some success to treat IBD. This gives a possible scientific explanation to the traditional practices of using vinegar for psoriasis.
Naturally fermented vinegars contain acetate and a fair dose of the butyrate and propionate, which are actually somewhat more effective in reducing cytokines. Fermented vinegars also contain microbes that may have a probiotic effect, or microbial proteins that have an effect on the immune system.
"Distilled vinegar" is distilled from petroleum or natural gas, and depending on how much it is distilled, may be pure acetic acid solution. It may have some beneficial effects, but it seems the real 'sour wine' is probably better.
I imagine it is possible to overdo it, but taking a moderate amount of vinegar is unlikely to have many side effects. Straight vinegar can dissolve the enamel from teeth if consumed regularly, and might irritate the skin if used undiluted. I'm adding a spoonful to a glass of water twice a day and using a dilute solution to rinse or soak.
Some types of fiber can also be fermented in the gut to form acetate and the related compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects.