Did you know that your favorite smooth, single malt or woody, dark bourbon isn’t just a delicious treat but could actually help to keep you in good health? Read the whole article to discover all the whisky health benefits!
Does whisky have health benefits?
As long ago as the 16th century, whisky was seen as a medicinal drink as much as it was a delicious beverage. It was thought to aid digestion and stop joint and bone pain.
Later on, in the prohibition era, it was never considered illegal to import into the United States because it was seen as a medicine first, and a liquor second.
These days, you won’t get a doctor writing out a prescription for whisky, so we don’t see this ancient and beloved drink exactly as medicine. However, a drop or two may do wonders for our health at times!
Let’s take a look at some whisky health benefits.
Reducing the risk of heart disease
Studies have shown that a small glass of whisky per day can reduce the risk of heart disease because it contains high levels of antioxidants and a type of ‘good’ cholesterol. Single malt, considered higher quality than blended whisky, contains more antioxidants than other kinds.
Helping to fight cancer
Not only are you at a lower risk of heart disease by taking a couple of sips of whisky per day, but this wonder drink also apparently helps in the fight against cancer, too!
One of the most precious whisky health benefits is that it contains a compound called ellagic acid, which fights the cells in your body that have a tendency to go rogue and mutate into cancerous cells. So, kick cancer off with a sip or two of amber nectar!
Makes you recover from colds
We’re used to hearing about how a ‘wee hot toddy’, or a small glass of whisky mixed with warm water, can be sipped in bed when you’re feeling lousy with a cold or the flu. Truth be told, it is more than just an old wives tale. It is science!
Mixing whisky with honey and lemon and topping it up with hot water helps you recover more quickly from a cold as the drink opens up your blood vessels, encouraging the body to fight infection more rapidly, and having you up on your feet in no time.
And once you’ve recovered, don’t feel you have to put the whisky bottle away for the next time you’re sick! The same antioxidants and other whisky health benefits that help fight disease can boost your immune system, making you even less likely to catch the next cold that goes around.
Helps weight loss
If you’re on a diet but still want to have the odd tipple, you can easily make whisky your new favorite alcoholic beverage. As it contains zero carbs, zero fat, and almost no sugar whatsoever, it’s a popular drink for those who are watching their calorie intake.
It also means that even if you don’t have to forego a drink every now and then. In fact, drinking whisky can even help to prevent certain types of diabetes from developing in the first place.
So, the next time you’re out with friends, forget about a couple of glasses of wine or beer and try a whisky-based drink instead. You can easily mix whisky with club soda or even sugar-free coke and have it as a long drink, so you’re not restricted to shorts.
If you still have doubts about this topic, check out our article and discover if whisky makes you gain weight or not!
Settling your stomach
This whisky health benefits claim that was made nearly 500 years ago is still true: this spirit really does help in digestion. Drinking a glass of whisky before a meal can give you an appetite, as it stimulates the enzymes in your gut and prepares your body for food.
If you’d rather take your tipple after dinner instead, then that will work just as well. Whisky can break down a heavy meal, leaving you feel less bloated. Perfect for relaxing after Christmas dinner!
To have those whisky health benefits… Moderation is key!
Like most things in life, you shouldn’t have too much of a good thing. Whisky is meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Too much strong alcohol brings a whole host of other problems, which will undo all the good mentioned above.
So, take a little drop now and then as opposed to polishing off several glasses a night in order to get the full benefits.
Here’s to a long and healthy life. Cheers!