As you prepare your spring and summer salads, you might try using an array of vinegars to add flavor without extra calories and also to increase the health benefits of your meal.
Vinegar has been used for centuries as a folk remedy for diabetes. Recent studies, have shown vinegars benefit of lowering glucose response to a high carbohydrate meal. Many cultures have used vinegars in their everyday foods, like the rice vinegar in traditional japanese sushi rice which actually helps decrease a spike in blood sugar from the rice.
Adding as little as 1 tsp. of vinegar to your salad can have a benefit to your blood sugars.
If you are trying to lose weight, vinegar has been shown to help increase feelings of satiety or fullness. This means it is harder to overeat because it makes you less hungry. I recommend 1 TBSP of organic apple cider vinegar in water. (Please contact your Dr. to see if this is appropriate for you). Most people tolerate the vinegar drink with other food, but see what you like.
For salads, some excellent combinations are mixing vinegar with herbs-I like red wine vinegar with oregano or dill. Balsamic vinegar with basil.
Champagne vinegar with herbs de provence, and Rice wine vinegar with ginger.
The next time you order a salad with your meal, ask for red wine or balsamic vinegar and keep your blood sugars in balance.