reaction of strong acid (HCl) and weak organic (acetic) acid, i.e., what reaches the small intestine if I drink vinegar?

Question

Vinegar is promoted as a wonderful nutritive.  If this is not an urban myth, then just what is the chemistry of it?  I know that the carbons of fatty acids break down two-by-two in the cellular production of energy, and that the nutritive (essential) fatty acids are by and largely even-numbered carbon substances.  Is the fact that acetyl acid is a two-carbon compound related?  Just what is the effect of the stomach (its strong HCl) on vinegar?  Let's assume pure acetic acid.  Are there receptors in teh gut that absorb acetic acid into the blood stream?

Answer 1

1. Acetic acid, itself is an organic acid which is the result of fermentation. Apart from that fact, there is no relation to other organic molecules.

 

2. Acetic acid is a weak acid, and in the presence of hydrochloric acid, it will remain as an unassociated molecule, in accord with the principle of LeChatlier. No chemical reaction will occur.

 

3. Acetic acid will cross be absorbed into the blood steam, and transported to the liver where it will be metabolized. I was unable to find a reference to specific receptors for this acid.