The Macrobiotic Uses of Wine Vinegar

The macrobiotic diet is a type of vegetarian diet option that limits foods and tries to find perfect balance. According to Kathleen M. Zelman, a registered dietitian, who writes for WebMD, the diet started from Japan's Zen Buddhism and works on balancing the yin and yang via foods. The diet has limitations on foods and suggestions for various food items, among which is the use of wine vinegar.

Wine Vinegar Facts

• Wine vinegar is primarily used in Mediterranean cooking. The website Food.com states that it is particularly used by the French and that red wine vinegar is often a staple in French homes. There are two types of wine vinegars available: red and white wine vinegar. The red wine vinegar is best when aged, while the white wine vinegar creates a tangy flavor.

Special Foods

• Wine vinegar, like all vinegars, is classified under the special foods category of the macrobiotic diet. Typically the special foods are the items that do not have a specific classification elsewhere and do not fit with other foods, such as seasonings and sauces. Wine vinegar is typically considered a seasoning for cooking in the macrobiotic diet.

Diet and Health

• For most individuals, the macrobiotic diet is a healthy option and does not put restrictions on wine vinegar relating to health conditions. For some, such as individuals who have Type 1 diabetes, the macrobiotic diet has a strict plan. Vinegar is one of the seasonings to avoid for any individual who has Type 1 diabetes and who follows the macrobiotic diet.

When to Use

• The macrobiotic diet does not specify when to use specific foods, but rather how often. Vinegars fall under the category of occasional use rather than frequent use. While it is not forbidden by the diet, the tangy flavor is not a perfectly balanced flavor and thus is best eaten occasionally.