When we think of whiskey, we often imagine a strong drink enjoyed at the end of a long day. However, what many people don’t realize is that whiskey actually has a number of unexpected health perks. From heart health to stress reduction, the benefits of whiskey may surprise you. In this article, we’ll explore 11 unexpected health perks of drinking whiskey that may just make you appreciate this spirit even more.

Whiskey contains antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of heart disease. According to a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, moderate alcohol consumption, including whiskey, has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Additionally, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has found that moderate drinking can raise ‘good’ HDL cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Drinking whiskey in moderation has been shown to reduce stress. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism published a study that found moderate alcohol consumption can lower levels of stress. Whiskey, in particular, has a soothing effect that can help calm the nerves after a long day.

Whiskey has been used as a digestive aid for centuries. In fact, many people drink a small amount of whiskey after a heavy meal to help aid digestion. The high alcohol content in whiskey can help stimulate enzymes in the stomach, which can aid in the digestion process.

According to a study published in Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association, moderate alcohol consumption, including whiskey, is associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke. The study found that the antioxidants in whiskey can help reduce the risk of blood clots and increase ‘good’ HDL cholesterol, both of which contribute to a lower risk of stroke.

Contrary to popular belief, moderate alcohol consumption, including whiskey, has been linked to improved cognitive function. A study published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment found that moderate drinkers were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The antioxidants in whiskey are thought to play a role in protecting the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation.

While excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, moderate whiskey consumption may actually help prevent certain types of cancer. The ellagic acid found in whiskey has been shown to have anticancer properties, particularly in preventing the growth of cancer cells in the liver and colon.

Believe it or not, moderate alcohol consumption, including whiskey, has been associated with increased longevity. A study published in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research found that moderate drinkers had a lower mortality rate than both heavy drinkers and abstainers. This may be due to the heart-healthy benefits of whiskey and other alcoholic beverages.