"Wine Gladdens the Heart" was said in the Book of Psalms (104:15), but this can also be true for all types of alcoholic beverages in the world – known for enhancing mood when consumed moderately without overindulging. True, the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption are well known – from drunkenness leading to loss of control to the hangover that appears the day after, not to mention the damage caused to the body, especially the liver and the brain, from uncontrolled drinking. But if these drinks are consumed in moderation– they can actually benefit not only your mood but also your health. We’ve already shared with you the health benefits of beer, whiskey and wine, but other popular alcoholic beverages also have their own benefits. To prove the point – and maybe even help you choose the alcoholic drink that will satisfy you most – we've prepared a list of 8 common spirits and the health benefits they can bring with responsible, moderate consumption.
This popular strong drink can be a preferred choice for those on a diet, as it contains only 69 calories per 30ml serving – but note that the higher the alcohol percentage, the more calories vodka will contain. Additionally, expert nutritionists have found that drinking one shot of vodka at night may help to relax blood vessels, promote the growth of new blood vessels, and lower blood pressure – although, of course, excessive drinking of this strong drink can cause it to rise back up. Vodka also has a beneficial effect on cholesterol, as moderate consumption has been found to help increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood and prevent atherosclerosis. 
One of Mexico’s national drinks, made from the local agave plant, is known for its digestive benefits – they say a shot of tequila before a meal increases appetite, and a shot after a meal aids digestion. Tequila is also associated with lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) – as its alcohol content helps to break down the fats that lead to it. Additionally, a compound called fructan, found in the agave plant from which tequila is made, has probiotic properties that help beneficial gut bacteria thrive, as shown in a study published in Mexico in 2007; furthermore, another study from 2016 found that the fructan in tequila helps promote bone health and prevents bone loss.
The main ingredient in gin is juniper berries, whose oil is used in producing the drink and has been found to lubricate the bronchial passages in the body and help get rid of excess phlegm in cases of colds or illness. Additionally, juniper berries are known for their diuretic properties, and the leaves of the plant aid digestion – so gin can also help relieve bloating and improve digestion. Many people suffering from arthritis have also reported that moderate gin consumption has helped relieve joint pain. 
When sipped slowly and moderately, this strong drink made from sugar cane by-products can help alleviate muscle pain and prevent it. One serving of rum at night can also help reduce anxiety and ensure a good night's sleep. Additionally, this Caribbean-rooted drink acts as a blood thinner and can help increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) in the body.
The Japanese rice wine – increasingly known in the West as Japanese cuisine has gained popularity outside East Asia – has several noteworthy benefits when consumed responsibly. First, drinking sake can prevent blood clots, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels, which benefits heart health. Additionally, sake contains three types of peptides (amino acid chains) that help prevent brain damage as we age and reduce the development of diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Moreover, a study conducted in Japan found that sake contains a compound that acts similarly to insulin in the body, thus preventing the development of diabetes.
This popular strong German liqueur is made from a range of herbs and various berries that undergo distillation and infusion processes, creating a digestif – a drink initially intended to aid digestion after a heavy meal, which is its primary benefit. Beyond that, Jäger, as it’s commonly called, was originally created for medicinal purposes and only later became a drink consumed for enjoyment rather than healing. Accordingly, it can serve as a good remedy for coughs as it coats the throat effectively. Additionally, it can strengthen the immune system, thanks to ingredients like ginseng root and lavender included in its composition, and drinking it can help relieve various pains and treat abdominal cramps experienced by women as part of premenstrual syndrome.
This drink results from the distillation process that young white wine undergoes, resulting in brandy. Brandy is associated with numerous health benefits – for example, its antibacterial properties help alleviate colds, sore throats, and flu and even strengthen the immune system. Brandy is also carbohydrate-free and low in cholesterol, helping you better control your weight if consumed occasionally. Additionally, brandy helps reduce blood pressure and is rich in antioxidants that aid in the fight against aging.
Arak, one of the most popular drinks around the Middle Eastern countries. It is made from fermented grapes, followed by distillation and the addition of dried anise seeds – giving it its distinctive flavor. Moderate consumption of arak can offer several benefits, such as strengthening heart health, accelerating blood flow, aiding in sleep disorders, and even enhancing skin health – most of these benefits stem from the properties found in anise seeds, which are also used to create other popular alcoholic beverages like Greek ouzo, Turkish raki, Italian sambuca, and more.
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