I am not an adventurous drinker. I mainly stick to the basics of beer, wine, and the occasional apple martini – but on a recent layover in Iceland, I inadvertently discovered the delight that is gin. I bought several tiny bottles of Vor Icelandic Gin to give to my uncles as souvenirs. It seemed like such a manly drink (and the bottles were adorable). 
Unfortunately, it was going to be a couple months until I saw my uncles so one day I decided to partake in it myself. It was such a surprise. Not only was the flavor very refreshing and interesting, but the effect was unlike any other time I had indulged in an adult beverage. Unlike the relaxing and almost sedating effects of most drinks I had previously enjoyed, there was almost an uplifting (though still relaxing) effect. This intrigued me and brought me to find the information below. Cheers!
8 Reasons Why You Should Drink Gin
- Gin contains natural ingredients.
Of course, every gin is made with a different combination of ingredients, but besides the main berry, juniper, gin can include coriander, sage, cassia, nutmeg, rosemary, and angelica root. It’s like a much more fun version of the paleo diet…right?
- Juniper berries are jam-packed with health benefits.
The main ingredient in gin is taken by many people as a daily supplement due to its medicinal properties. It combats infection (gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria), renal insufficiency, bad coughs and lung congestion, and can jump start a late period.
- It’s a natural remedy for arthritis.
The stuff that helps chronic conditions is found in gin and can therefore help with loss of tone in tissues and organs, as well as joint pain, gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Many people have recently started to eat gin-soaked raisins at night as a homeopathic formula to keep inflammation at bay.
- It can help eliminate wrinkles in your skin.
Alcohol, in general, contains antioxidants, but the added juniper-boost aids your body in regenerating cells, which in turn is great for maintaining smooth, line-free skin.
- It fights kidney and liver disease.
Gin contains diuretic ingredients, which eases kidney filtration and therefore helps get rid of bad bacteria.
- Your digestive system will thank you.
The bitter herbs contained in gin can cause increases in digestive enzymes and stomach acid secretions, which helps break down food quickly and improves digestion.
- It fights cancer.
The high antioxidant levels in gin help to “neutralize free radicals in the body,” which are some roots of cancer. These same kinds of benefits are found in fad drinks like kombucha, but wouldn’t you rather skip the ‘buch and get tipsy?
- It won’t jeopardize your waistline
Gin happens to be one of the least calorific types of alcohol at about 97 calories per 1.5 ounces. Since your digestive system is being revved up by the juniper, you’re also less likely to bloat and develop a urinary tract infection as it helps flush out toxins. That’s the kind of cleanse we can get behind.
Gin Cocktail Recipes
Gin and Tonic
Ingredients
2 ounces gin
4 ounces tonic water
1 lime wedge
Ice
148 calories
Gin Gimlet
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin — London dry gin
- 2/3 ounce Rose’s lime juice
178 calories
Martini
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce dry vermouth
- Ice
- Lemon twist, for garnish
- Green olive (optional)
176 calories
Dr. B. Bakes 