What is Cream of Tartar?
Cream of tartar, or potassium bitartrate, is an acidic, powdery substance that forms as a natural byproduct during the winemaking process. As grape juice ferments, this substance crystallizes and precipitates out, forming deposits on the inside of wine barrels. This sediment is then purified and refined to create the white powder we recognize as cream of tartar.
Culinary and Industrial Uses
Before exploring its supposed health benefits, it's important to understand its primary uses. In the kitchen, cream of tartar is an essential ingredient for several reasons:
- Stabilizing egg whites: It helps stabilize whipped egg whites, increasing their heat tolerance and volume, which is crucial for meringues and angel food cakes.
- Preventing sugar crystallization: It helps prevent the formation of sugar crystals when making syrups, frostings, and candies, ensuring a smoother texture.
- Leavening agent: When combined with baking soda, it acts as a leavening agent (homemade baking powder) to help baked goods rise.
- Stabilizing whipped cream: A pinch can stabilize whipped cream, helping it hold its shape longer.
Beyond the kitchen, it also has industrial and household applications, such as a cleaning agent when mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
Separating Fact from Fiction: Health Claims
Many unsubstantiated health claims circulate regarding cream of tartar, largely due to its high potassium content. While potassium is a vital mineral for bodily functions, attributing broad health cures to cream of tartar can be misleading and dangerous.
Scientifically Supported vs. Unproven Claims
Let's break down some common assertions and what the science actually says:
- Constipation Relief: An older study did suggest that a specific dose might have a laxative effect. However, this is not a recommended long-term or primary treatment and should be approached with caution due to the risk of excessive potassium intake.
- Aiding in Smoking Cessation: This is a persistent myth with no scientific evidence to back it up.
- Migraine Relief: Despite anecdotal reports, no evidence supports the use of cream of tartar for treating migraines.
- Lowering Blood Pressure: While potassium is known to help lower blood pressure, there are no studies linking cream of tartar specifically to this benefit. Ingesting large amounts of potassium through this concentrated form can be dangerous.
- Curing Acne: Although tartaric acid is in the AHA family, no evidence supports using cream of tartar for skin health, and its topical application is not proven effective.
- Arthritis, UTI, and Weight Loss: These are additional claims that completely lack scientific evidence.
The Role of Potassium
The most significant nutritional aspect of cream of tartar is its potassium content. Potassium is an essential electrolyte involved in nerve signaling, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. However, the human body typically regulates potassium levels from dietary sources like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Supplementing with concentrated potassium through cream of tartar can easily lead to dangerously high levels, a condition known as hyperkalemia.
Comparison of Cream of Tartar vs. Other Potassium Sources
| Feature | Cream of Tartar | Whole Food Sources (e.g., Bananas, Avocados) | Potassium Supplements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potassium Concentration | Very high (20% by weight, approx. 495mg/tsp) | Varied; generally lower per serving | High; dosage is standardized |
| Nutrient Profile | Mostly potassium bitartrate; trace minerals | Rich in fiber, vitamins, and a broad range of minerals | Isolated potassium, often with fillers or additives |
| Safety for Consumption | High risk of hyperkalemia if consumed in large amounts | Very low risk of toxicity from normal consumption | Generally safe when used as directed; risks with high doses |
| Scientific Evidence | Limited evidence for medicinal benefits | Well-established health benefits related to a balanced diet | Regulated and medically reviewed for specific deficiencies |
| Recommendation | Not recommended as a health supplement | Recommended as the primary source for potassium | Used under medical supervision for deficiencies |
The Dangers of Misinformation and Excessive Intake
The internet is rife with unsupported claims about cream of tartar, often marketed as a detox or cure-all. The risk associated with self-medicating with large quantities is severe. Intentional, excessive ingestion has led to life-threatening hyperkalemia, causing abnormal heart rhythms, muscle weakness, and other severe symptoms. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or heart failure, or those taking certain medications, are at an even higher risk. Always consult a healthcare provider before using concentrated substances like cream of tartar for medicinal purposes.
Conclusion
Does cream of tartar have any health benefits? While technically a high source of potassium, the health benefits of cream of tartar beyond its minimal laxative effect are largely anecdotal and unsupported by scientific evidence. The serious risk of hyperkalemia, a dangerous elevation of blood potassium, outweighs any unproven benefit. The safest and most effective way to obtain potassium is through a balanced diet of whole foods, not by consuming concentrated baking ingredients. For any health concerns or before attempting any home remedy, seeking professional medical advice is always the safest course of action.
For more information on the dangers of high potassium intake, the National Institutes of Health provides comprehensive resources on diet and nutrition. National Institutes of Health (NIH) | (.gov)
