A study published in ACS’ Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry says that vinegar may be able to help fight ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease. Researchers found that vinegar suppressed inflammation-inducing proteins while improving the gut’s bacterial makeup in mice.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition in which the large intestine’s lining becomes inflamed, leading to ulcers, abdominal pain, diarrhea and other symptoms. It is believed that the microbiome of the digestive tract plays a large role in regulating inflammation.

The researchers tested vinegar and its main ingredient, acetic acid, in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis. Giving the mice either substance by adding it in small amounts to their drinking water significantly reduced symptoms of the condition. An analysis of mouse stool samples showed that treated animals had higher levels of bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Other studies have found these bacteria to be beneficial to mice with colitis-like symptoms. Treatment also lowered the levels of proteins that induce potentially damaging inflammation in the gut. The researchers say further work would be needed to determine vinegar’s effects on ulcerative colitis in humans.

Apple cider vinegar has been marketed as a digestive aid for years; now the science is starting to back up the claims. Although human studies are yet to be done, the common practice is to take 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar either in water or undiluted before meals to aid with digestion. Regular consumption of vinegars may erode tooth enamel, so swishing with baking soda water after a meal or vinegar may be prudent to reduce acid wear.

(Source)