She Strengthens

The Pirate’s Dilemma: Uncovering the Truth About Rum’s Health Benefits

Rum: A Sweet and Spicy Spirit with a Rich History

Rum, the notorious drink of choice for pirates everywhere, has been enjoyed for centuries thanks to its delicious sweet taste, fruity essence, and woozy after effects. Traditionally, this sweetness came from sugarcane, but most of today’s rum uses molasses. Rum producers ferment the molasses before distilling the product into the drink we all know and love. The darker the rum, the longer the fermentation. You’ll also often find spices in many brews for an extra hit of flavor.

Does Rum Provide Health Benefits?

Drinking any alcohol in moderation provides some health benefits, but it’s unclear whether rum has anything special to bring to the table. At best, it might numb a sore throat. And spicing up your life with a bit of rum here and there will certainly make things more interesting (and delicious). But don’t expect it to magically cure any of your ailments. Aim for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle instead.

The Possible Health Benefits of Rum

Skin Care Benefits: A Myth?

You’ll find plenty of people championing rum for giving them flawless skin. Some even use rum-based face masks or rubs that supposedly help with acne. But there is no clear evidence that this actually works. Any old 80-proof booze is going to kill some bacteria, sure. But even rubbing alcohol isn’t a great choice here.

Is Drinking Rum Every Day Good for You?

No. Regularly drinking more than the recommended limits every day can have a range of harmful effects on your body. One study showed that there’s an increased risk of developing liver conditions too if you drink more than the guidelines recommend regularly. The key is moderation. You can’t expect to drink loads of rum every day and miraculously become super healthy.

Can Drinking Rum Cure a Sore Throat?

Cure? Not really. Soothe? A little. Every country on the planet has a booze-filled remedy at hand for fighting cold, flu, and other yucky viruses. But do they actually work? Well, one study suggested that alcohol can kill the viruses that give you colds and the flu. But we’re talking hand sanitizer here, not hot toddies.

The Nutrition of Rum

A shot of rum contains roughly 97 calories — a relatively low number when compared with some other alcohols. Rum itself also contains no carbs. But you’ll often find it alongside mixers like soda and fruit juice that can be pretty high carb and sugary. Consuming too much sugar can contribute to weight gain and increase your risk of diabetes.

Does Alcohol Provide Health Benefits?

If you’re getting crunk every weekend, or find yourself drinking alcohol more days than not, you’re probably doing yourself more harm than good. But drinking small amounts of alcohol regularly can have several health benefits. It’s all about moderation.

Risks Associated with Alcohol Consumption

We all know that drinking too much alcohol on the reg can do a number on your health. That doesn’t mean painting the town red is off the cards for good. You just need to remember that it’s supposed to be about having fun. If alcohol use stops being fun, you should probably ask yourself why you’re still doing it.

What to Do If You Can’t Put Down the Booze

Alcohol use disorder can happen to anyone. Thankfully, there are loads of options out there to help you cope. If you live with alcohol addiction or have concerns about a family member, there’s always ways to get help — and you’re certainly not alone.

Takeaway

If tropical climates and booze-filled coconuts are your jam, then you’re probably no stranger to the joys of rum. Sailors might have once sipped this infamous sweet liquor for a whole host of health reasons. Scurvy shouldn’t really be a problem if you’ve got access to fresh fruit and veggies. But if you’re looking for alcohol-based health benefits in 2021, you’re better off drinking beer or wine (in moderation, of course) if you’re looking to enjoy any health benefits. As long as you’re living a balanced lifestyle, you can certainly rely on the occasional nip o’ rum to warm your cockles on a lonesome night at sea. Or, y’know, a Friday night in the living room.