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Is Brandy Good for You? 8 Benefits Listed (2023 Updated)

Is Brandy Good for You

Last Updated on February 16, 2024 by Lydia Martin

Brandy comes in several flavors and nuances. You might find it bold yet warm and subtle at the same time. When consumed in moderation, brandy is also believed to have potential health benefits.

So, is brandy good for you? Let’s find out.  

Is Drinking Brandy Beneficial? 

A glass of liquor

Brandy is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented fruit mash [1] and while it tastes good, do you know that drinking this distilled spirit can keep you away from ailments? Brandy contains polyphenolic compounds that can reduce inflammation and have the ability to neutralize free radicals in our bodies. 

While other people may think drinking liquor such as brandy is harmful, brandy played a role in medicine over the years as a fever reducer and sedative [2]. 

8 Health Benefits of Brandy 

Health Benefits of Brandy 

1. Acts As Antioxidant 

If you drink brandy, the liquor contains antioxidants useful for reducing inflammation, improving immunity, and preventing blood clots. Scientists found that brandy has antioxidants that help you eliminate free radicals that may mutate as unhealthy cells in our bodies. The antioxidant will more likely help reduce the risk of cancer and heart diseases. 

2. Increases Good Cholesterol 

Maison Rouge VSOP

If you have high cholesterol, consuming brandy helps increase good cholesterol, improving your overall health. The alcohol does contain low cholesterol, so it is good for your heart; plus, it is an ideal aperitif. In addition, because of the antioxidant that it contains, it will help remove bad cholesterol.  

3.  A Depressant

Liquor is classified as a depressant, and brandy can slow down neural activity and brain functioning. Brandy produces molecular and neural changes that can change your mood and take you off the edge. 

However, as much as you want to use it to relieve stress, it is not advisable to consume spirits like brandy excessively because it may affect your health. 

4. Acts As A Sleeping Aid

Brandy cocktail

Brandy is an after-dinner drink because of its taste, quality, and health benefits. Brandy has a relaxing and soothing quality that induces a person to good sleep.

Brandy contains 30-60% ABV, and if you have sleeping problems, a shot or two will help you aid such ailments and have good health. However, since the brandy may need time to kick in, drink it hours before sleep to improve your sleep pattern. 

5. Helps In Reducing Weight

Brandy is good for your health because it is known to help you aid weight problems as the alcohol does not contain carbs. If you want to keep your body weight in control, drinking a shot or two of brandy removes bad cholesterol and will help you stimulate your appetites over time. 

In addition, the alcohol content of brandy will help you with digestion. Thus, it is an ideal after-dinner drink. But what’s the best brand of brandy today?

6. Boosts Immune System

St. Agnes Brandy with cocktail

If you are experiencing flu or cold, a shot of brandy works like magic because it has antibacterial components that will help you get rid of cough in no time. Brandy is warm in nature, and taking a shot will soothe your throat and help boost your immune system. 

In addition, it will help you reduce fever and colds, as proven by medicine over the years. 

7. Has Anti-ageing Properties

You don’t have to go and try expensive treatments for youthful and glowing skin because brandy will do the work. Brandy is a reliable source of anti-aging properties that can prevent you from having wrinkles and is great in protecting you from cognitive issues. 

The antioxidant that brandy contains will also help you with your vision because it helps you mutate healthy cells in your body and eliminate bad ones. You could watch your skin glow and become young again when you add brandy to your diet. 

8. Reduces Arteries InflammationDraw arterial blood

The fat build-up in our body causes an inflammatory response in our arteries, but fortunately, brandy can help reduce and, at best, eliminate artery inflammation. A sip of brandy helps lower blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular disease. 

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Why It’s Called the “Water of Life”  

Brandy is called “Water of Life” because the liquor is denoted as a distilled spirit produced by fermentation and distillation. Brandy is obtained using pomace distillation, making it a colorless and clear fruit brandy before being aged in barrels. 

If the distilled spirit is made from grapes, it’s brandy, but if it is made from other fruits, it is referred to as eau-de-vie, and both are referred to as “Water of Life.”

Risks of Drinking Too Much Brandy

Napoleon Brandy

  • Dangerous changes in the central nervous system and mental confusion
  • The sudden or rapid drop of blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Experience trouble in breathing, seizure, and vomiting
  • Slow heart rate and dulled response
  • Increase risk of cardiovascular disease
  • Extreme low blood pressure
  • Slowed motor response, impaired memory, and blurred vision
  • Alcohol overdose, brain damage, or death

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much brandy should you drink a day?

You should limit yourself to two standard drinks for men and one standard drink of brandy for women every day. Health experts say that a standard drink equivalent to 1.5 ounces is enough to experience the health benefits of the liquor. 

Is it good to drink brandy every night?

Yes, it is good to drink brandy every night because it helps improve sleep patterns and aid sleeping problems. It can also reduce the sign of aging and treat your respiratory issues. However, you should limit yourself from consuming too much alcohol to avoid intoxication and future ailments. Also, what’s the proper way to drink brandy

 

Which is healthier, brandy or whiskey?

Determining which is healthier between brandy and whiskey depends on various factors, including personal health considerations and individual preferences.

Both brandy and whiskey are distilled spirits, and their health impact can be influenced by factors such as alcohol content, added sugars, and potential health benefits associated with specific compounds.

In general, moderation is key to responsible alcohol consumption. Some argue that pure brandy made from grapes may have certain antioxidant properties, while whiskey, especially if it’s a single malt, may contain compounds with potential health benefits.

Ultimately, the healthiness of either depends on factors beyond the type of spirit, including overall lifestyle choices.

Is brandy high in sugar?

Pure brandy, made from fermented fruit juice, does not typically contain added sugars. However, the sugar content in brandy comes from the natural sugars present in the fruit during the fermentation process.

While the sugar content is not as high as in sweet liqueurs or flavored spirits, it’s advisable to choose pure brandy made from 100% fruit juice for a lower sugar option. Flavored or sweetened brandies may have added sugars, and it’s essential to check labels if sugar intake is a concern.

Is brandy good for your stomach?

Moderate consumption of brandy may have certain potential benefits for the stomach. Some individuals believe that brandy, particularly when taken in moderation, can help with digestion and alleviate stomach discomfort.

However, excessive alcohol consumption, including brandy, can irritate the stomach lining and lead to digestive issues. It’s crucial to approach alcohol consumption responsibly and be mindful of individual tolerance levels.

Is brandy good to drink straight?

Brandy is often enjoyed straight, as sipping it neat or on the rocks allows one to appreciate its flavors and aromas. High-quality brandies, such as Cognac or Armagnac, are often crafted to be savored on their own.

The traditional way of serving brandy in a tulip-shaped glass allows for the concentration of aromas and enhances the overall drinking experience. However, personal preferences vary, and some individuals may choose to mix brandy in cocktails or enjoy it with water.

Which alcohol is healthiest?

There is no definitive answer to which alcohol is the healthiest, as it depends on various factors, including individual health considerations, preferences, and moderation. Some studies suggest potential health benefits associated with specific compounds in certain types of alcohol.

For instance, moderate red wine consumption has been linked to potential heart health benefits due to antioxidants like resveratrol.

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to various health issues, including liver problems, cardiovascular issues, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

The healthiest choice is to drink in moderation, considering factors such as alcohol content, added sugars, and individual health conditions.

Why do doctors recommend brandy?

Doctors may recommend brandy or other alcoholic beverages in certain situations for potential health benefits, but this advice is often given with caution and in moderation. Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption may be associated with certain cardiovascular benefits, such as increased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is considered “good” cholesterol.

Additionally, moderate alcohol intake may have anti-inflammatory effects. However, it’s crucial to note that the potential benefits must be weighed against the risks, and individual health conditions and medications should be taken into account.

Doctors may recommend alcohol consumption only for those who already do so in moderation and should never suggest starting to drink for health reasons.

Is brandy high in cholesterol?

Brandy itself does not contain cholesterol as it is derived from the fermentation and distillation of fruit juices, typically grapes. However, the effects of alcohol on cholesterol levels are complex.

Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption may lead to an increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol. On the other hand, excessive alcohol intake can have detrimental effects on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

It’s crucial to consume brandy and other alcoholic beverages in moderation and consider individual health factors.

Is brandy OK for diabetics?

For individuals with diabetes, consuming alcoholic beverages like brandy should be approached with caution and only in moderation. Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels, and people with diabetes must be mindful of their intake.

It’s advisable for individuals with diabetes to consult with their healthcare providers to determine whether moderate alcohol consumption fits into their overall diabetes management plan. Monitoring blood sugar levels and understanding how alcohol may impact them is essential for individuals with diabetes.

Is brandy bad for your blood pressure?

Moderate alcohol consumption may have certain effects on blood pressure. Some studies suggest that small to moderate amounts of alcohol may contribute to a slight reduction in blood pressure. However, excessive alcohol intake can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. It’s crucial to note that these potential benefits may not outweigh the risks, and individual responses to alcohol can vary. People with concerns about their blood pressure should consult with healthcare professionals, and those with hypertension should be cautious with alcohol intake.

Is whiskey the healthiest alcohol?

There is no definitive answer to which alcohol is the healthiest, as health considerations depend on various factors, including individual health conditions and lifestyle choices. Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption, including whiskey, may be associated with certain cardiovascular benefits.

Whiskey, like other alcoholic beverages, contains compounds that may have antioxidant properties. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to negative health effects, including liver problems, increased risk of certain cancers, and cardiovascular issues. The healthiest choice is to drink alcohol in moderation and consider factors such as individual health conditions, medications, and overall lifestyle.

So, Is Brandy Good For You?

Drinking could be bad for your health, and yes, it is partly true. However, brandy is surprisingly good for you! Aside from its low amount of calories and carbs, the spirit contains antioxidants that will keep you young, bright, healthy, and glowing over time. 

Unlike other spirits, consuming brandy brings health benefits that are beneficial for everyone. However, there is a saying that “too much of anything is good for nothing,” so drink responsibly and moderately.  

References:

  1. https://www.britannica.com/topic/brandy 
  2. https://greatist.com/eat/benefits-of-brandy
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