The benefits of whiskey have a long history that can be traced back to 16th-century Scotland. Whiskey was sold at apothecaries to cure a variety of ailments including joint pain, congestion, and for its anti-aging properties.
This dark grain alcoholic drink is made worldwide with various degrees of character and quality. Its name in Gaelic broadly translates to “water of life.” It is no wonder whiskey is still one of the most popular spirits in the world.
Surprisingly, doctors prescribed whiskey in America during Prohibition to treat patients suffering from high blood pressure, tuberculosis, and pneumonia.
Let's dive deeper into the whiskey barrel and see why this alcoholic drink is popular for its health benefits.
More About Whiskey
Whiskey is a fermented beverage made from grain mash. Different grain varieties include wheat, rye, corn, and barley. The whisky is aged in wooden casks, typically made from old sherry or charred white oak. Grains are usually malted to produce more depth in the flavor.
The name of the type of whiskey is assigned according to its production. There is scotch, single malt, rye, and bourbon. One of the most popular types of whiskey is bourbon.
Below you'll see why bourbon is becoming increasingly popular for its health benefits.
12 Healthy Reasons to Drink Bourbon
So, are there any health benefits to bourbon? Most definitely! Recent research has confirmed sound evidence that shows whiskey as being a substance that can enhance health.
Below are 12 health reasons for why to choose bourbon:
1. Prevents Type-2 Diabetes
Whiskey has a powerful substance called ellagic acid that is produced from the aging process in wooden barrels. This acid regulates the levels of glucose released by the liver. It also helps keep your insulin levels in balance.
Studies have shown a decrease in the onset of diabetes by as much as 30 to 40 percent. It is an impressive study that provides a lot of hope for those that are experiencing metabolic challenges.
2. It is Gluten-Free
Those who are sensitive to gluten will enjoy whiskey as their drink of choice. Whiskey is specially beneficial to people trying to lose weight as it has a low carb, sugar, and calorie content.
3. Increases Good Cholesterol
Healthy levels of HDL prevents the accumulation of bad cholesterol in the body. Bourbon keeps cholesterol levels in balance, which prevents diseases such as Atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
4. Provides Antioxidants
Since bourbon contains ellagic acid, which is full of antioxidants, the body is able to easily eliminate free radicals that can lead to serious diseases. Ellagic acid stops DNA from being in contact with compounds such as nitrosamines, which are known to cause cancer.
5. Improves Cognitive Functions
Bourbon has the ability to increase circulation, which also improves oxygenation. Along with these properties and the antioxidant content, bourbon lowers the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.
6. Improves Immune Function
Antioxidants eliminate free radicals and help keep your immune system in top shape. This helps you prevent contracting harmful viruses and bacterial infections.
7. Prevents Blood Clots
Is bourbon good for your heart? Absolutely! Blood clots can become dangerous and can even cause death. They lead to serious conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and thrombosis. Bourbon helps maintain a healthy circulatory system.
8. Improves Overall Physiology
Since bourbon has the ability to dilate blood vessels, more oxygenated blood is able to flow throughout all your organs and muscles. This improves your overall performance and allows you to overcome infections.
9. Controls Appetite and Prevents Indigestion
The composition of bourbon works effectively as an appetite suppressant and helps prevent indigestion after meals.
10. Lessens the Chances of a Hangover
When alcohol is not consumed moderately it can leave your body with a devastating hangover. People who drink bourbon don't experience difficult hangovers, thus it is much gentler on your body than other spirits (in moderation of course).
11. Reduces Stress
Stress is known as the number one killer in the world. A drink of bourbon has shown to calm nerves and slowing down activity, therefore reducing stress.
12. Decreases the Risk of Cancer
Studies with bourbon have shown to prevent DNA connections with cancerous compounds. It is the potent antioxidant in bourbon, ellagic acid, that shows such successful results in preventing cancer.
Bourbon, The End Notes
You may ask: "is bourbon bad for your health?" Well, that all depends in the amount you consume. Even the most healthy drinks can become dangerous if not moderately consumed. Bourbon is good for your health as long as you use it wisely.
To obtain the most benefits of drinking whiskey, be sure to stay hydrated and consume only moderately amounts. If used properly, you'll be surprised about the many health benefits it provides. Cheers!
