12 Health Benefits And Risks Of Drinking Whiskey

National Bourbon Day is dedicated to honoring the beverage that has been around since the 1700s and is considered to be the American adult's go-to liquor.

The special day, celebrated every year on June 14, is associated with activities such as bourbon-tasting parties as well as simply preparing a bourbon-based cocktail, according to National Today.

No one can deny the pleasure that comes with enjoying a glass of whiskey. But aside from its delicate sweetness, the drink has also been found to carry several health benefits when taken moderately.

On National Bourbon Day 2021, increase your awareness by reading through the different health benefits you can get from drinking whiskey and by learning the risks associated with abusing the liquor, courtesy of WebMD, The List and Whisky Facts.

The Benefits of Whiskey

Calorie content

Whiskey contains no fat or any carbohydrates of sugar. This makes the drink more suited for diabetics as it will barely affect their body's blood glucose level.

Heart health

A moderate amount of whisky every week (maximum of seven glasses) reduces one's risk of developing heart disease, according to some studies. This is because the drink is rich in polyphenols -- antioxidants linked to lower heart problem risks.

Skin and hair

Whiskey is known to have beauty benefits when applied as a facial cleanser, a skin exfoliant, or even as a conditioner, according to The List. This is because whiskey has the ability to promote hair growth and get rid of the dead skin cells on one's face.

Brain health

Aside from lowering the risk of heart disease, the polyphenols present in whiskey also help maintain balance in the brain. Research has found that small amounts of whiskey can lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease associated with cognitive decline.

Immune system

Moderate alcohol consumption can improve one's immunity against diseases as well as improve the body's response to vaccines. Although more research is still needed to explain why alcohol has this effect, scientists have linked the drink to better antibody response and faster removal of bacteria in the body.

Cancer

Whiskey contains high levels of ellagic acid, according to Medical Daily. This particular antioxidant neutralizes free radicals, the by-products of cellular metabolism that cause cancer.

Photo: drizly.com

The Health Risks of Whiskey

Heart problems

The health benefits whiskey brings to the heart are maximized with moderate consumption. Too much whiskey, however, can actually cause cardiovascular problems as well as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Alcohol poisoning

Whiskey contains a large percentage of alcohol. According to Whisky Facts, overconsumption of the drink can lead to elevated alcohol levels in the blood, which then causes alcohol poisoning. This could then lead to breathing difficulties, increased heart rate and gag reflex.

Mental health

Heavy alcohol use has been linked to depression and anxiety, and it is said to disrupt memory for most people as well. Experts advise consuming only low amounts of whiskey.

Liver damage

A high amount of alcohol in the system may cause fatty deposits to form in the liver. Due to the scarring this brings, it may eventually lead to liver failure.

Pregnancy concerns

Consuming alcohol is strongly discouraged during pregnancy as it increases the risk of a miscarriage, premature birth and fetal alcohol syndrome.

Cirrhosis

Prolonged whiskey intake can cause the liver to harden due to the excess buildup of scar tissue in the organ. This condition restricts the organ to fight infections and regulate blood clotting.

Is the world ready for whiskey produced in a process of "accelerated maturation 2.0"? Photo: AFP / Ed Jones