Australia is known for its obsession with coffee and its distinct coffee culture, hip neighbourhoods, and natural wonders. But other than this, the country is slowly building a reputation of excellence in alcohol production.
While the country has long been known as a respected wine producer, other types of liquor such as the Australian gin are also starting to gain international recognition. Several gin distillers were even awarded in a recent international competition. It is not surprising because the country is home to more than 600 craft gins that boast unique flavours and an innovative distilling process.
The rise in craft gin has also increased the consumption of the beloved alcohol in the country. While this may seem troubling to some, studies show that there are some health benefits to consuming this beloved Australian spirit in moderation. The following are some of the known health benefits of drinking Australian gin. Further, it is essential to store gin properly to increase its shelf life.
Its Main Ingredient is Very Nutritious
Like many other berries, juniper berries are a good source of Vitamin C which protects your cells from damage because of their antioxidant property. They also contain powerful plant compounds that have various protective qualities. These berries are also rich in essential oils and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation. Juniper berries are the main botanical ingredient in gin, giving it its unique but distinct flavour.
Could Promote Heart Health
Because of its main ingredient, juniper berries, gin is showing promise to promote heart health. Juniper berries are known to improve high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or good cholesterol levels and help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or the bad cholesterol, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels.
Low in Calories
Gin is one of the best calorie-friendly spirits you can take with just 97 calories per shot or 25 ml. It also has less sugar than other alcohols but be careful with the mixers you would use to not add extra sugar. Use low-calorie ones like tonic and low-calorie soda instead.
May Help Control Type 2 Diabetes
Juniper berries, the main ingredient in the distillation of gin, were used in traditional medicine practices to control Diabetes Mellitus Type 2. Recent studies into the different properties of the berries show convincing evidence that it has anti-diabetic properties. While more studies are needed for conclusive results, researchers of these initial studies believe the berries’ high antioxidant concentration is what causes its anti-diabetic effects.
Prevents Bloating and Infections
Juniper berries are a natural diuretic that can help fight bloat and its effect, urinary tract infections. As a diuretic, it will help prevent water retention, making you urinate more often. Frequent urination will help you flush out toxins and bacteria from your system, preventing possible infection of your urinary tract and keeping you healthy.
Helps Fight Cough
Another surprising benefit of drinking gin is that it can help fight cough. It is because juniper berries, the main ingredient in the distillation of gin, along with other plant botanicals, have essential oils, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties. The smooth texture can also help ease sore throat if you combine it with ginger and other herbs.
Aids in Digestion
Bitters or the botanicals such as fruit, spices, leaves, bark, roots, and herbs that are infused into your gin help increase the production of stomach acid and digestive enzymes in your digestive system. These help with the efficient breakdown of your food intake. Because of its effect on stomach acid production, these botanicals also aid in heartburn.
Although Australian gin has shown some health benefits, this doesn’t mean that you can freely consume this liquor. Provided you drink gin in moderation, you will enjoy these health benefits.