Although alcohol consumption should be done in moderation, drinking whiskey has some surprising health benefits. From lowering the risk of heart disease to improving sleep, learn about five unexpected ways whiskey can help you stay healthy.
Improves Heart Health
Drinking whiskey in moderation can reduce the risk of heart disease. It is known to increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is often referred to as “good cholesterol”, and reduce LDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol”. This can help protect your cardiovascular system from diseases like stroke and atherosclerosis.
Reduces Risk of Cancer
Studies have found that drinking whiskey can reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer and limit the growth and spread of tumours. This is due to ellagic acid, an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage and has been found to reduce cancer risk. Ellagic acid is also found in many other fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Improves Memory and Cognitive Function
Drinking whiskey in moderation has been found to affect your brain positively. Studies have shown that whiskey can improve memory, focus and concentration while also helping protect against degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. This is due to the presence of phenolic compounds in the whiskey, which help to protect nerve cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Aids in Sleeping Better
Studies have shown that drinking a glass of whiskey before bed can help induce a deeper, more restful sleep. This is because whiskey contains soothing properties, which help relax your body and mind, allowing you to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, it is essential to note that drinking too much whisky before bed can result in disrupted sleep since alcohol may reduce the amount of time spent in deep sleep.
Contains Antioxidants
Whiskey also contains antioxidants, most notably a plant compound called ellagic acid. This antioxidant is found in many dark-coloured fruits and vegetables. Studies show that it can help reduce inflammation, increase blood flow and possibly even protect against cancer. As such, drinking whiskey occasionally may also provide some of these health benefits.