If you're looking to shed a few pounds, a simple switch could be the key - swapping your salt for vinegar. LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor UK warns that excessive salt intake can heighten the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. But if weight loss or general health is your goal, replacing your usual salt with vinegar could be the answer.
You can find it in virtually any supermarket, like Sarsons Malt Vinegar from ASDA for just £1.15. The NHS recommends the following maximum salt intake: 11 years old and over No more than 6g (around 1 teaspoon) 7 to 10 years old No more than 5g 4 to 6 years old No more than 3g 1 to 3 years old No more than 2g Under 1 year old Less than 1g To help keep your salt levels down, doctors suggest that vinegar can serve as a healthy alternative to salt.
"Whether sweet or more acerbic, vinegars add a kick into any meal and their acidity actually mimics the tongue's reaction to the taste of salt. Add it to sauces, marinades, dressings, as well as vegetables you're going to roast in the oven," they recommend. Citrus, punchy fruits and vegetables are other great options to consider.
Even red wine can be a beneficial addition, with experts noting that the beverage enhances the flavour of a dish while also "cutting back on cooking fats and oils. It's highly versatile and can be used to help cook and simmer foods, as an ingredient for a sauce or gravy, or as a marinade for meats and vegetables. Try sauteing or poaching food with wine, drizzling a lit.
