When most people think about alcohol, they often associate it with its negative effects—headaches, hangovers, and health warnings. But what many don’t realize is that alcohol itself isn’t inherently harmful; it’s excessive and uncontrolled consumption that leads to problems. Like many things in life, moderation is key.
Interestingly, some types of liquor may actually come with unexpected health benefits. One such surprise? A refreshing gin and tonic might actually help ease hay fever symptoms.
Hay Fever: More Than Just a Seasonal Nuisance
Millions of people deal with hay fever every year. From itchy eyes and runny noses to constant sneezing and fatigue, the symptoms can be extremely disruptive. While over-the-counter antihistamines are the go-to treatment, some researchers are now looking at alternative options—including what’s on the shelves of your local liquor store.
Why Gin May Be Different
Research has shown that alcohol can often make hay fever and even asthma worse. In fact, a study by Asthma UK found that 64% of asthma sufferers report worsened symptoms after drinking alcohol. However, not all liquors are created equal.
Clear spirits like gin and Everclear (a high-proof grain liquor) contain significantly lower levels of histamines and sulfites compared to darker drinks like red wine or beer. These compounds are known to trigger allergy symptoms. Because of its clean distillation process, gin doesn’t carry the same irritants found in other types of alcohol. This makes it a potential option for those sensitive to traditional alcoholic beverages.
More Than Just Allergy Relief
Beyond possibly helping with hay fever, gin has a few other lesser-known benefits:
Cold and Cough Relief: A small amount of gin, especially when mixed with ingredients like ginger or herbs, may help loosen mucus and soothe a sore throat.
Low-Calorie Option: With only about 97 calories per shot, gin is one of the lighter choices at your favorite liquor store near me.
Digestive Support: Derived from juniper berries (often called “super berries”), gin may help improve digestion and reduce bloating—something not all spirits can claim.
Finding the Right Spirit for You
If you’re curious to try this for yourself, head to your nearest ABC Liquors or local liquor store and ask about clear spirits like gin or Everclear. Whether you’re looking for something that’s lighter on histamines or just want a low-calorie evening drink, there’s a wide range of liquor options that might suit your needs.
As with any remedy, even natural or alternative ones, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional if you have allergies or respiratory conditions. And of course, drink responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can gin really help with hay fever symptoms?
Yes, clear spirits like gin have low levels of histamines and no sulfites, which are often responsible for triggering hay fever symptoms. While not a cure, gin may be a better alcohol option for those with seasonal allergies.
2. Why do some types of alcohol make allergies worse?
Alcoholic drinks like red wine, beer, and dark liquors often contain higher levels of histamines and sulfites. These compounds can cause or worsen allergic reactions and respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
3. Is Everclear a good alternative for allergy sufferers?
Everclear is a high-proof, clear grain liquor, and like gin, it has low histamine content. However, due to its high alcohol concentration, it should be consumed with extreme caution and always diluted or used in moderation.
4. Where can I buy gin or Everclear near me?
You can find gin, Everclear, and other low-histamine spirits at your local liquor store or ABC Liquors. Simply search online for a “liquor store near me” to find the closest location.
5. Does alcohol cause hay fever or just make it worse?
Alcohol doesn’t cause hay fever, but it can intensify symptoms in those already suffering. Drinks with high histamine or sulfite content are usually the culprits.
6. Are there other health benefits to drinking gin?
In moderation, gin may help with digestion, reduce bloating, and even soothe coughs when mixed with herbal ingredients like ginger. It’s also lower in calories compared to many other alcoholic beverages.
7. How many calories are in a shot of gin?
A standard shot of gin contains about 97 calories, making it one of the lower-calorie options available at your local liquor store.
8. Can I drink gin daily for hay fever relief?
It’s not recommended to rely on alcohol for medical relief. While gin might be less irritating than other drinks, it’s important to use proper antihistamines and consult a doctor for chronic symptoms. Drink alcohol responsibly and in moderation.