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EVERY YEAR, International Whiskey Day is observed on March 27 across the world. Almost more than half of the world's population must have consumed whiskey once in their lifetimes. International Whiskey Day was initiated to honour and celebrate whiskey as one of the most popular alcoholic beverages.

In 2008, the first mention of the annual International Whiskey Day was made. This day was established in 2009 at the Northern Netherlands Whisky Festival. To honour the late whisky writer Michael James Jackson, International Whiskey Day was created. Michael Jackson, an English author and journalist, has written numerous volumes on beer and whisky. His knowledge of malt whisky and beer was both well-known.

According to a survey by Statista, the most popular occasion to drink whiskey among Indian consumers in February 2022 was 21 per cent of respondents aged 40 years and older who drank whiskey at a formal conference. In contrast, 14 per cent of respondents aged 18 to 29 years only drank it at an office party and while clubbing with friends. With such high consumption of this alcoholic beverage, here are some must-know health benefits and side effects of whiskey.

Health Benefits Of Consmuing Whiskey

1. May Lower Cholesterol Levels

Whiskey is made with fermented grains and contains at least 40 per cent alcohol. Various studies suggest that whiskey contains high levels of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that lower bad cholesterol levels in the body and increase good cholesterol levels.

2. Heart Health

According to WebMD, whiskey has high levels of polyphenols, and plant-based antioxidants linked with lowering your risk of heart disease. The polyphenols in whiskey have been shown to decrease ‘bad’ cholesterol (LDL) and increase ‘good’ cholesterol (HDL) levels, and reduce triglycerides, or fat in your blood. Bad cholesterol and triglycerides can clog your arteries, while good cholesterol helps to keep them clear. Maintaining healthy levels can help prevent heart disease and stroke.

3. Relieve Cold Symptoms

When consumed in moderate or small amounts, whiskey can help clear mucus congestion in your sinuses and chest, which lets your body better deal with sickness and infection. This effect may also relieve other symptoms of a cold or flu, like coughing or wheezing, as per WebMD.

4. Immune System

Several studies have linked moderate alcohol consumption to improved immunity to diseases and improved responses to vaccines. Studies state that consuming whiskey in moderation can help relieve the symptoms of cold, remove bacteria quickly and enhances the antibody response.

Side Effects Of Consming Whiskey

1. Liver Problems

As our liver breaks down alcohol in the body, heavy drinking can lead to liver diseases. High amounts of alcohol cause fatty deposits in your liver and scarring, which can eventually cause liver failure, as per WebMD.

2. Cancer Risk

We all are aware that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to increased cancer risk in an individual. The mouth, liver, oesophagus, colon, and pancreas are some common cancer types that develop due to excessive alcohol consumption.

3. Pregnancy

The amount of alcohol you take can also affect the development of your baby during pregnancy. According to WebMD, it also increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and foetal alcohol syndrome.

 

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)