Apple Cider Vinegar vs White Vinegar: What's the Difference?

Introduction

Vinegar is a common household staple used for cooking, cleaning, and even health remedies. The most popular types of vinegar are apple cider vinegar (ACV) and white vinegar. But what's the difference between these two vinegars and is one better than the other?

Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apple juice. It provides a brownish-gold color and fruity flavor. White vinegar is made from distilled grain alcohol and provides a clear color and strong acidity. While both can be used for cooking and cleaning, ACV is preferred by some people for its potential health benefits.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll examine apple cider vinegar vs white vinegar to determine the pros and cons of each type and which one you should choose for your needs.

Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits

Apple cider vinegar has grown in popularity over the years as a health elixir. Advocates claim ACV provides the following benefits:

May promote weight loss

Some small studies show vinegar may help reduce body fat and weight. The acetic acid in ACV may suppress fat accumulation and increase fat burning. ACV may also make you feel fuller.

Can lower blood sugar levels

Research indicates vinegar may improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar responses after meals. The acetic acid appears to block digestive enzymes that break down carbs.

May lower cholesterol

Animal studies found vinegar may reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The acetic acid may inhibit lipid oxidation and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.

Can kill harmful bacteria and viruses

Vinegar is able to kill some types of bacteria and viruses, including E. coli and influenza. It may also contain antibacterial compounds like polyphenols.

Could enhance heart health

One rat study showed ACV slowed the buildup of plaque in the arteries while another indicated it lowered blood pressure. This may lead to a reduced risk of heart disease.

May improve skin health

Due to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, some people use ACV as a skin toner to help treat acne and protect the skin from sun damage. It may also balance the skin's pH levels.

White Vinegar Uses

While apple cider vinegar is often praised for its health benefits, good old white vinegar has its uses too. Here are some of the top ways people use white vinegar around their home:

Cleaning and disinfecting

White vinegar is a great natural cleaner and disinfectant. It can help kill bacteria, mold, and germs due to its high acidity. Use it to clean countertops, floors, windows, and other hard surfaces.

Removing stains and odors

Soak clothes, fabric, or carpet with white vinegar to remove tough stains and musty smells. It works great on coffee and sweat stains. You can also use it to brighten laundry.

Cooking and pickling

While not as flavorful as other vinegars, white vinegar works well for making pickled vegetables. Its high acidity gives it the punch needed to help preserve fresh foods. Use it for deglazing pans or add it to chutneys.

Beauty and hygiene

Dilute white vinegar with water to create an effective hair rinse that removes product buildup. Some people like using it as a natural deodorant as well. It may also help restore pH balance to your scalp and hair.

Weed control

Spray undiluted white vinegar on unwanted weeds to help kill them off naturally. The high acid content dehydrates and destroys the plants. Be careful not to get the vinegar on wanted plants.

Apple Cider Vinegar vs White Vinegar

So when it comes down to apple cider vinegar vs white vinegar, which one should you use?

Here's a quick comparison of the pros and cons of each type:

ACV Pros:

• Richer flavor
• Potential health benefits
• Safe for consuming
• Contains beneficial probiotics
• Antibacterial properties

ACV Cons:

• More expensive
• Can damage tooth enamel
• Upset stomach if drank undiluted

White Vinegar Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Effective cleaning/disinfecting
• Removes stains and odors
• Controls weeds
• Safe for household use

White Vinegar Cons:

• Harsher flavor
• No health benefits
• Not recommended for consuming

As you can see, both vinegars have their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some tips on when to use each one:

Use ACV when you want to:

• Add flavor to recipes
• Make natural health remedies
• Improve skin function
• Preserve foods

Use white vinegar when you want to:

• Clean your home
• Brighten laundry
• Remove odors
• Kill weeds
• Pickle vegetables

Use either for:

• Cooking
• DIY beauty treatments
• Making salad dressings and marinades

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar

If you want to experience the many purported apple cider vinegar benefits, here are some simple ways to use it:

For drinking

Mix 1-2 tbsp ACV in a glass of water once or twice a day. You can add a bit of honey to improve the flavor. Drink it before meals to aid digestion.

On salads

Whisk 3 parts extra virgin olive oil with 1 part ACV, then drizzle over your salads for a tangy dressing.

For skin toner

Dilute ACV with water and apply to your face after cleansing. This helps restore pH levels and prevents acne. Rinse after 5-10 minutes.

For hair rinse

After shampooing, rinse your hair with a mixture of 1 cup water to 1 tbsp ACV. Let sit for a few minutes before washing out. It removes buildup and gives shine.

For household cleaning

Mix equal parts water and ACV in a spray bottle. Use it to clean countertops, windows, floors and other areas. Wipe down with a clean cloth.

How to Use White Vinegar

To take advantage of white vinegar's cleaning, deodorizing, and stain-removing powers, here are some effective ways to use it:

For cleaning

Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water and use it to clean appliances, countertops, floors, windows, mirrors, and other surfaces. The high acidity disinfects and kills germs.

For laundry

Add 1/2 cup white vinegar to your laundry load. It helps soften fabric, brighten whites, and removes odors. Use it instead of fabric softener.

For produce wash

Fill a sink with cool water and add 1-2 cups white vinegar. Soak fresh produce for 5-10 minutes, then rinse well. It removes pesticides and wax.

For deodorizing

Place bowls of undiluted white vinegar around the rooms of your house or in the fridge to absorb odors. You can also apply it under arms as a natural deodorant.

For weed control

Spray full-strength white vinegar directly onto weed leaves and stems to help kill unwanted plants. Avoid getting it on nearby plants you want to keep.

Apple Cider Vinegar vs White Vinegar: Which is Healthier?

When it comes to nutrition and wellness, apple cider vinegar appears to have more benefits than white vinegar.

ACV contains probiotics and antioxidants that may provide anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-glycemic effects. It also has vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

White vinegar has more limited nutritional value. While it can help kill germs, it doesn't contain prebiotics or antioxidants like ACV provides.

However, keep in mind that ACV is not a miracle cure. More research is still needed to confirm many of its supposed health claims. But adding it to your diet in moderation just might offer a little boost.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe?

Yes, apple cider vinegar is generally safe when used appropriately. Here are some tips for minimizing side effects:

• Always dilute ACV before ingesting. Drinking it straight can harm tooth enamel and your esophagus.
• Start with small doses (1 tsp) and work up to larger amounts to allow your body to adjust.
• Avoid applying undiluted ACV to your skin as it may cause burns.
• If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before using ACV for glycemic control.
• Rinse your mouth with plain water after consuming ACV.

ACV may interact with certain medications like diuretics, insulin, and digoxin. Check with your doctor before using it if you take prescription drugs.

Is White Vinegar Safe?

White vinegar is also safe for most people when used properly. Here are some guidelines for safe use:

• Never ingest white vinegar undiluted. Always dilute it first.
• Use gloves and avoid skin contact when using white vinegar for weed control.
• Don't inhale vinegar fumes directly as it can irritate lungs.
• Rinse produce well after soaking in diluted white vinegar.
• If you have sensitive skin, test white vinegar on a small area first before applying more widely.

White vinegar is not known to interact with medications, but it's still best to exercise caution and consult your doctor if needed.

Conclusion

Apple cider vinegar and white vinegar are both useful products that can serve a variety of purposes around your home. While ACV has more potential health benefits, white vinegar shines when it comes to cleaning, deodorizing, and removing stains.

ACV is the better choice for consuming, while white vinegar works great for household uses. Keep both types on hand so you can enjoy the specific advantages of each one!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.