Is gin a magical health elixir?
While gin made by the likes of ClemenGold, Sugarbird, and Six Dogs certainly tastes like it could heal all pain, gin is more of a superfood-charged tipple with science-backed health benefits. Think good skin, a long life, smart diabetes care, and brilliant bowel movements. Check it out:
What's in gin?
Compared to other boozy beverages like beer and wine, one serving of gin is low in calories and carbohydrates. And it contains no added sugars (provided you drink it neat). The nutrition for 1 shot of gin, per the USDA, is:
- 97 calories
- 0 g carbohydrates
- 0 g fiber
- 0 g protein
- 0 g sugar
Gimme the science of gin health!
Reason #1: Sip your way to super skin
Gin is infused with juniper berries, which are considered by many to be a "superfood." Though the term "superfood" has no formal definition, it tends to refer to foods high in antioxidants and other healthful properties. As it so happens, juniper berries are bursting with both.
A 2018 study in Industrial Crops and Products found that juniper berry essential oil may have some anti-aging properties which is why, according to a 2021 study in Molecules, juniper berries essence is commonly used in cosmetics.. Does this mean drinking their goodness in a GNT could contribute to staying young? Maybe! Cheers to chance.
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Reason #2: Live long
The antioxidants in gin can help more than just your skin. A 2019 review in Heliyon revealed that some studies suggest that the anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties of juniper berries can improve health and potentially lead to a longer life by improving blood flow and toxin removal from the blood. Noice!
Reason #3: Pretty good poop
Gin is a popular aperitif (a drink served before a meal) in several cultures due to its functionality as a digestive aid. That is, it is believed to prime your pipes for a meal – a belief confirmed by the same 2019 review in Heliyon. According to the review, juniper berries have been found to help with digestion and may help relieve gas and heal ulcers, too. Bottoms up.
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Reason #4: Diabetes drinking made smart
Spirits like gin typically have no carbohydrates on their own, making them a good drink option for someone who has diabetes. Gin is usually mixed with tonic water, which is also relatively low in carbs at just 22 g of sugar per 8-ounce drink, according to the USDA.
It is important to consider the mixers that you are adding to your gin drinks. Opting for mixers with no added sugar, or diet mixers that use a sugar substitute, can be a good option for someone with diabetes.
Moderation is important for everyone but especially for those who have diabetes as excess drinking can lead to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
The verdict: Healthy or nah?
To be clear, gin isn't a miracle drink and any alcohol should be consumed in moderation—two drinks or less per day for men and one or less per day for women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
With that said, the science speaks for itself: There are some benefits to be gained from enjoying the juniper-flavoured spirit. So mix yourself up a refreshing glass of our Sipsmith Gin Watermelon Smash, or top your favourite gin with a mix of your choice, and raise a glass to life!
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h/t: eatingwell.com