Is Rum really good for health
Three cheers for the unsung hero, Rum
There’s a reason why we’ve got our money on rum. Rum is one of the oldest spirits available, which is rich in tradition and culture of the Caribbean and history of the British Navy. The consumption of rum was a lifesaver for the armies at war and sailors at sea until a few decades ago. Who can forget the famous ‘rum tot’ given to sailors to help them warm their bodies and bones? At one point, rum consumption was an essential beverage for people at sea. Now that you know briefly about the history of rum, let’s look at what your favorite rum drink can do for your health.
Healthy heart
Here’s some good news for all you rum lovers. According to numerous studies, drinking rum in moderation is beneficial for the heart. Yes, you’ve read it right! Rum consumption can give you a healthy and strong heart. Also, it decreases cholesterol levels in the body. It is also a good drink for peripheral artery disease prevention and is a blood thinner, which can help combat artery blockages, prevent heart attacks and heart disease.
Common cold
Consuming a small portion of rum can give relief to your sore throat. Consuming a tablespoon or two of rum a day can help treat the common cold. This is due to rum’s high antibacterial properties, which helps cure colds effectively.
Diabetes
It is often said that drinking a tablespoon of rum every day lowers blood sugar. Rum’s medicinal properties have proven beneficial in lowering the risk of diabetes.
Sore muscles
When consumed in moderation, rum can help fight and prevent muscle pain. For people who have muscle pain, consumption of rum helps to increase bone mineral in the body, which can help prevent muscle pain, osteoporosis and assist in alleviating arthritis. Simply put, stronger bones lead to stronger muscles, and rum can help you fight minor muscle pain.
Keeps scurvy away
Now, going back to our little lesson in History, rum was the only alcoholic beverage given to British Navy so that they remained safe from scurvy (a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency).
Similarly, those with low immunity were advised to take a peg or two of the drink.
Effective Antiseptic
Have you hurt yourself and there’s no antiseptic at home? Rum is a great antiseptic! You can use it to clean wounds and it helps prevent bacteria from growing. It is an effective painkiller when applied topically and while consumed too.
Reduces the risk of Mental Disease
Rum can be great for preventing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, but only when consumed in moderation (up to one and a half ounces per day), which helps decrease your risk.
Cancer Prevention
Studies have shown that those who drink Rum moderately had a 38% lower risk of contracting kidney cancer than the people who did not drink rum. Additionally, research has also shown the health benefits of rum consumption in helping prevent thyroid cancer and lymphoma.
Rum for De-stressing
A single 1.5 oz serving of Rum reduces anxiety. In addition to its warming and calming properties, rum is an effective sedative. Good night, sleep tight with just a bit of Rum.
Rum for clear and healthy skin
Apart from the various health benefits of consuming rum, there is a popular beauty trick as well. For anyone who is prone to acne and pimples, rum is your solution. Its antibacterial and soothing ingredients clears away the bacteria. Mix rum and rose water in 1:2 ratio and apply it to the affected areas. Gently rinse after 5-10 minutes.
Offers Longevity and Nutritional Benefits
Rum comprises of no carbohydrates or fats. Moderate drinking of rum reduces anxiety, is good for the heart, reduces the risk of dementia; all of which increase an individual’s life span. Drinking it in moderation can possibly extend your lifespan by two to five years!
To sum up, while all alcohol should be consumed moderately, there’s no denying that Rum packs a punch and goes beyond being alcohol to provide nutritional benefits. So, next time you’re wondering which cocktail to order, consider what rum has to offer.