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Ingredients: Vinegar, water, mustard seed, salt, turmeric, paprika, spice, natural flavours, garlic powder
Vinegar:
Why is this ingredient added:
Vinegar is added for flavour as it is essential to acquire that specific taste (27).
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs:
Vinegar typically contains acetic acid. Acetic acid can reduce blood pressure and increase heart health (27). Vinegar has been proven to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase healthy bacteria in the stomach (27). Vinegar contains antioxidants that defend against oxidative stress, which can cause or worsen inflammation, heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes (27).
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
Acetic acid, the main component in vinegar, is an irritant to the stomach and causes a loss of the protective mucus in the intestinal tract, setting the stage for ulcers, gastritis, stomach cancer, vitamin deficiencies, and infections (27). Additionally, vinegar’s acidic pH is acidic enough to inflame the esophagus and stomach, trigger nausea and acid reflux (8). The use of vinegar has been shown to be harmful to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system (8, 27). Regular consumption of vinegar can cause low potassium and bone density levels (27).
Recommendation:
Vinegar mixed with water, juice, or another liquid is safe to drink, and it is acceptable to use it with other foods. Most people can consume 30 ml every day while maintaining health, however, the recommendation of vinegar is dependent on the individual’s tolerance (8).
Water:
Why is this ingredient added:
Water is added to mustard to acquire fluid and creamy characteristics.
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs:
Water provides oxygen for the body (17). Without it, a significant amount of the body would become dysfunctional. It is an absolutely crucial liquid for humans that presents many benefits such as:
Cleaning and releasing waste from the body (17)
Controlling body temperatures (17)
Helping the brain function (17)
Protecting tissues, spinal cord, and joints with lubrication (17)
Playing a role in a healthy digestive tract (17)
Playing an important role in nutrient absorption (17)
Improving blood oxygen circulation (17)
Enhancing the immune system (17)
Help lose weight (17)
Help boost energy (17)
Aid in cognitive function (17)
Improve mood (17)
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
Hyponatremia may occur if excessive water is consumed. The kidneys will not be able to excrete the water, preventing the body to be cleansed and causing tension (12). Excessive water will also dilute the sodium content of the blood, causing it to decrease to a dangerous level (12).
Recommendation:
One should consume enough fluids (including water) each day to stay well hydrated, about 2 litres, but the amount will vary depending on age, activity level, health condition, and overall diet (12).
Mustard Seed:
Why is this ingredient added?
Mustard seed contributes to Mustard’s strong, pungent, and moderately bitter flavour (18).
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs…
This ingredient can contribute to:
Prevention of cancer due to its anti-carcinogenic properties, such as omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, glucosinolates, and myrosinase (7)
Relief of asthmatic symptoms and prevent asthma because the sinapine compound improves muscle and lung function (7)
Relief of migraines as riboflavin vitamin prevents or reduces migraine (7)
Controlling blood pressure because it contains methanol extract which has an antihypertensive property (7)
aid in weight loss (diacylglycerol) (7)
control cholesterol as diacylglycerol increases high-density lipoprotein and reduces low-density lipoprotein (7)
relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and back pain (omega 3 fatty acids reduce pain and swelling in the joints) (7)
aid in preventing night blindness due to its high levels of vitamin A (7)
aid in the female menopausal process (magnesium, copper, and iron prevent problems like osteoporosis and high blood pressure that can come with menopause) (7)
relieve stomach discomfort and constipation (rich in fibre) (7)
include anti-ageing, skin preservation, and acne-fighting properties (vitamin K and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) (7)
aid in hair growth and preservation as the vitamins, fatty acids, and proteins of mustard seeds found in mustard oils encourage hair growth and prevent hair loss (7)
strengthens the bones due to the presence of a mineral called selenium and contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pain and sensitivity in the gums, bones, and teeth (22)
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur…
There are some health risks in regard to (or with the consumption of) mustard seeds, including abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and gut inflammation. In addition to this, burning in the throat and aggravation in people with ulcer disease (peptic ulcers are sore/painful lesions on the lining anywhere in the digestive tract with gastric juice) may occur (21, 26). These symptoms do not occur when mustard seeds are consumed in standard servings, so it is best to reduce your intake of mustard and products containing mustard seed to the recommended average daily intake to prevent these symptoms and irritations.
Recommendation:
The recommended amount is not more than 1 tablespoon of ground mustard seed per day (3).
Salt:
Purpose
Salt is found in many food items to enhance the taste while acting as a preservative (14).
What it does and health effects on the organs:
Salt is essential in the body as it is responsible for the electrolytes that carry the brain’s electrical signals throughout the body (14)
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
A high salt intake can cause high blood pressure due to osmosis. Eating too much salt or more than the recommended amount can lead to high blood pressure over time (14). The kidneys may have trouble removing excess salt to the point where the body cells start to contain more water due to osmosis, causing the volume of blood to increase and leading to high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes (1). High blood pressure can lead to aneurysms, which can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding (14). Overconsumption can also result in kidney failure by damaging blood vessels, thereby hurting kidney function and leading to a build-up of water and waste in the body (1). Sexual dysfunction, stroke, heart attack and failure, kidney failure/disease, vision loss are all complications from high blood pressure (14)
Recommendation:
The amount of salt present in mustard should cause no problems. It is recommended to have 1.5 grams for adults and 1 gram for children. Try not to go over 2.3 grams of salt as recommended by the American Heart Association (4, 9)
Turmeric:
Why is this ingredient added:
Turmeric is primarily used to give the mustard its yellow colour (2). It is harvested for its rhizome (rootstock), so it can be converted into a powder that can be used to dye food (25). In other foods, like curry, it can be used to add a spicy-bitter taste (24).
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs:
Turmeric is effective in maintaining cholesterol levels and treating pruritus and osteoarthritis. Taking extracts or turmeric by mouth at least twice a day can reduce cholesterol levels and irritation in people with kidney disease (23). It can also alleviate the pain and treat osteoarthritis due to curcumin, the active component of turmeric that has anti-inflammatory properties (23). Turmeric is also a powerful antioxidant (25).
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
Turmeric does not have any significant side effects, but it can cause an upset stomach, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea (13). A few cautionary effects of turmeric include:
Infertility in men as it can decrease sperm activity (24)
Iron deficiency may affect individuals who lack iron and prevent the body from absorbing iron (24)
Blood-thinning due to the curcumin it contains; people may become more likely to develop bruises, and excessively bleed due to this (11, 13).
Recommendation:
The recommended dose of turmeric is 500-2000mg (13).
Paprika Spice:
Why is this ingredient added:
The paprika extract is used in products as a natural flavouring and colouring additive (5).
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs:
The paprika extract has a sweet, appealing taste and an orange/red colour (5). Studies have linked strong vision with the intake of paprika (20). Inflammation and pain can be reduced with paprika (20). Additionally, HDL cholesterol, which is generally deemed beneficial as it helps remove other forms of cholesterol in the bloodstream (reduces the chance of heart disease), is increased with paprika intakes (20). Certain cancers may also be reduced because it fights oxidative stress (20). Paprika contains high amounts of iron and vitamin E. These nutrients contribute to healthy blood (20).
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
Though this spice provides benefits when consumed, there are a few observed health risks. People commonly refer to paprika spice as a “hidden allergen” because it may cause non-allergic and allergic reactions (5). Symptoms of non-allergic reactions include a skin rash, itchy mouth, and nasal irritation from inhalation. In contrast, the symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis (severe allergic symptoms) (5).
Recommendation:
The maximum acceptable daily intake (ADI) is 24 milligrams for every kilogram of body weight per day (16).
Natural Flavours:
Why is this ingredient added:
Natural flavours are used to enhance flavour without intentionally providing nutritional value (19).
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs:
Natural flavours are defined as spices derived from plants and animals; however, this does not mean all natural flavours are healthy (19, 15). Nutrition experts and public interest groups often do not disclose any data about natural flavours, so we are not entirely sure what effects it may cause on our organs. Fortunately, though, they seem safe for human consumption (19).
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
There are a number of chemicals in natural flavours, so it is very possible for individual reactions to occur (19). If you follow a specific diet or have allergies, it is advised to investigate what the natural flavours contain.
Recommendation:
They are appropriate for occasional consumption, but be cautious if you are on a special diet or have allergies (19).
Garlic Powder:
Why is this ingredient added:
Garlic powder is very frequently used in spice blends to provide an extra source of seasoning. In low-sodium dishes and snacks, garlic powder tends to be particularly prominent (10).
What it is and possible positive health effects on organs:
Like onion powder, garlic powder also has an abundance of iron that can enrich oxygen flow in the blood. In addition to that, potassium, zinc, and vitamin B6 can be found in this ingredient (10). Moreover, garlic powder can lower cholesterol levels, boost immunity (contains enzymes that protect against viruses, bacteria, and fungus), and prevent some forms of cancer (sulphur compounds in garlic powder can reduce the risk of colon and stomach cancer) (10).
Potential health risks and HOW those risks occur:
The only actual complication of garlic powder is the interference with prescription medications. These can cause a wide range of different symptoms depending on the age of the patient. This is why it is important to check with a medical professional before consuming garlic powder and other related products if on medication (6).
Recommendation:
There is no definite acceptable daily intake of garlic powder.
Overview: Moderate Amounts are Nutritious
Mustard can be used as a nutritious condiment as it can provide a variety of healthy nutrients in a diet. However, it must not be eaten excessively as this could result in more side effects than benefits. It is recommended that mustard is only a small part of the meal to be effective. Be aware that many people may not know they have mustard allergies. Even though it is a mild allergy, consult a health professional before consumption if you are concerned about potential reactions.
References
Kidney disease and kidney stones. Action on Salt. (n.d.). http://www.actiononsalt.org.uk/salthealth/factsheets/kidney/.
Blitz, M. (2013, March 12). Why Mustard is Yellow. Today I Found Out. http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/03/why-mustard-is-yellow/.
Mustard Seed. Eat This Much. (n.d.). https://www.eatthismuch.com/food/nutrition/mustard-seed,199/.
Fay, S. (2016, April 21). Salt: shaking up the link with stomach cancer. World Cancer Research Fund International. https://www.wcrf.org/int/blog/articles/2016/04/salt-shaking-link-stomach-cancer.
Frey, M. (2021, March 31). The Health Benefits of Paprika. Verywell Fit. https://www.verywellfit.com/paprika-benefits-side-effects-and-preparations-5093787.
Thompson, C. (2018, March 3). Garlic Powder Vs Garlic Salt: What’s The Difference. Better Food. https://betterfood.co/garlic-powder-vs-garlic-salt-difference/
Gill, S. (2020, July 12). 16 benefits uses and disadvantages of MUSTARD seeds - all About mustard seeds. Daily New Recorder. https://www.dailynewsrecorder.xyz/16-benefits-uses-and-disadvantages-of-mustard-seeda-all-about-mustard-seeds/
Harrar, S. (2018, October 6). Is vinegar good for you? Consumer Reports. https://www.consumerreports.org/healthy-eating/is-vinegar-good-for-you/
Is salt as bad as once thought? Live Well. https://www.unitypoint.org/livewell/article.aspx?id=ad2fb339-a297-4b0b-959c-5033c35cc8bb
Lama, S. C. (2020, February 20). Benefits of garlic powder. Live Strong. https://www.livestrong.com/article/268286-benefits-of-garlic-powder/
Leonard, J. (2020, January 15). 11 natural blood thinners for heart health. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322384.
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, October 14). Water: How much should you drink every day? Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
Meixner, M. (2018, June 11). Turmeric Dosage: How Much Should You Take Per Day? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/turmeric-dosage
Palsdottir, H. (2017, June 18). Salt: Good or Bad? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salt-good-or-bad
Rabin, R. (2019, February 01). Are 'natural flavors' really natural? New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/01/well/eat/are-natural-flavors-really-natural.html
Burgaud, C., & Pozza, C. (2017, December). Safety Assessment of Paprika Extract EXS0570IND. https://www.fsai.ie/uploadedFiles/Science_and_Health/Novel_Foods/Applications/Initial%20assessment%20Paprika%20Extract%20EXS0570IND.pdf.
Silver, N. (2020, June 30). Why Is Water Important? 16 Reasons to Drink Up. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/why-is-water-important
Smith, K. (2017, September 27). Ingredient Spotlight: Mustard seeds, Tiny seeds that Add Bitter, Pungent flavor to dishes. One Green Planet. https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/ingredient-spotlight-mustard-seeds/
Spritzler, F. (2016, December 16). Natural Flavors: Should You Eat Them? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/natural-flavors
Streit, L. (2019, August 20). 8 Science-Backed Benefits of Paprika. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/paprika-benefits
Tartar, D. M., & Sharon, V. R. (2017, January 15). Second degree burn to mustard powder. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28329477/
Timesofindia.com. (2019, December 04). Mustard seeds Benefits: 7 health benefits of Including mustard seeds in your diet. Entertainment Times. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/7-health-benefits-of-including-mustard-seeds-in-your-diet/photostory/72349935.cms?picid=72349981
Torborg, L. (2020, January 24). Mayo clinic Q and A: TURMERIC'S anti-inflammatory properties may relieve ARTHRITIS PAIN. Mayo Clinic. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-turmerics-anti-inflammatory-properties-may-relieve-arthritis-pain/
(2019, September 17). Turmeric: RxList. https://www.rxlist.com/turmeric/supplements.htm
(2021, February 3). The Health Benefits of Turmeric. Nuffield Health. https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/article/the-health-benefits-of-turmeric
(2020, November 06). What you need to know about ulcer disease. Gl Society. https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/ulcer-disease/
Yazdi, P. (2020, August 12). 11 surprising health benefits of vinegar. Self Hacked. https://selfhacked.com/blog/vinegar-health-benefits/
Credits:
Researcher: Ronak Patel | Ethan Ma | Merry | Ria. S
Reviewed by: Karen Giesbrecht (Registered Dietitian)
Editor: Tanya
Graphics: Tiffany Z
Last updated on March 22nd, 2022, 6:16 PM PST/PDT
*Disclaimer: Ingredients may vary from company to company and product to product. The information included is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, please consult a registered dietitian for nutrition recommendations that are customized for you.
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