Alcohol and health
To begin with, drinking in moderation is the first rule to follow, firstly because it allows you to better appreciate what you are drinking, but also because whatever the abuse, it has no positive effect on your physical and psychological health.
Although it has been proven that alcohol is one of the biggest causes of death, when consumed sensibly, it can have beneficial effects. Here are those that are considered “healthier” at the rate of 1 or 2 glasses per day.
Let’s start with wines :
- Red wine is said to help reduce bad cholesterol and the antioxidants in some wines promote good blood circulation. It has even been found that it can help Alzheimer’s patients and lose weight.
- Rosé wine can also lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attack. It also contains potassium, which is good for the system. While it has fewer calories than red wine, it does not have as many antioxidants.
- Champagne is good for heart health, reduces the risk of diabetes and is low in calories. In addition, research has shown that it can improve short-term memory, while other studies have pointed out that it can reduce senile dementia in later life.
In spirits :
- Tequila offers a lower calorie content than other drinks. Agave does not raise blood sugar levels.
- Whiskey/bourbon/scotch… Several studies have shown that drinking whisky/bourbon/scotch reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and senile dementia in the elderly. In addition, the drink itself contains no fat or carbohydrates, only some of them contain sugar.
- Rum may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure or heart attacks. Studies suggest that it may also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
One thing to note is that to remain “healthy” these drinks should be drunk straight or possibly mixed with water (still or sparkling).
Here are some examples of the number of calories :
1 glass of cider = 50 cal per 100ml
1 glass of port or 1 flute of Champagne = 80 calories
1 glass of red wine = 82 cal
1 glass of Kir or 1 glass of rosé wine = 90 cal
1 glass of white wine = 105 cal
1 Spritz = 120 cal
1 beer = 125 cal
1 Martini = 128 cal
1 Margarita = 139 cal
1 Mojito = 160 cal
1 Gin = 265 calories per 100 ml
1 Pastis = 274 calories per 100 ml