The Bloody Mary is a popular cocktail containing vodka, tomato juice, and various spices and flavourings. It is widely regarded as a hangover cure and is usually consumed in the morning or early afternoon. But how does it compare to beer in terms of health?
Well, vodka is considered one of the healthier alcohols due to its low carb and calorie content. In addition, the tomato juice in a Bloody Mary is packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that reduces inflammation and the risk of cancer. Other common ingredients such as horseradish and celery also have health benefits.
On the other hand, beer is typically higher in calories and drinking large quantities can lead to negative health effects. Light beers have lower calories but also tend to have lower alcohol content.
So, while no alcohol is truly good for you, a Bloody Mary may be a healthier option compared to beer due to its nutrient-rich ingredients and lower calorie count.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Calories | A Bloody Mary has 125 calories or more, depending on glass size. A vodka soda has 65-70 calories, and a vodka tonic has 100 calories. |
Carbohydrates | Vodka has zero carbs. |
Vitamins | Tomatoes in Bloody Marys contain vitamins and minerals that help revive the body. They are made up of electrolytes, sodium, potassium, and Vitamin C. Tomatoes also contain lycopene, which is high in antioxidants and help reduce inflammation. |
Sugar | Bloody Marys have less sugar than other brunch drinks, such as mimosas. |
Hangover cure | The vitamins and minerals in Bloody Marys, especially the Vitamin B6 in tomatoes, help cure hangovers. |
Garnishes | Bloody Marys often come with celery as a garnish, which is 95% water and contains small amounts of vitamin A and vitamin C. Other common garnishes include olives, cheese cubes, pickles, lemon wedges, dried sausage, bacon, and shrimp. |
What You'll Learn
Bloody Marys are healthier than beer
While no alcohol is truly good for you, Bloody Marys are definitely healthier than beer. Firstly, Bloody Marys are packed with nutrients and vitamins that are beneficial to your health. The tomato juice in a Bloody Mary is full of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and decreased blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and fat buildup in arteries. Tomatoes also contain electrolytes, sodium, potassium, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B6, which is known to reduce hangover effects and symptoms.
The other ingredients in a Bloody Mary also have health benefits. Horseradish, for example, has analgesic and antibiotic properties and may help fight against different types of cancers and harmful bacteria. Celery is an excellent source of antioxidants and beneficial enzymes, and is known to fight cancer, lower high blood pressure, ease insomnia, prevent kidney stones, and help with digestive problems.
In addition, Bloody Marys are low in calories and sugar compared to other cocktails, such as mimosas. A typical Bloody Mary has around 125 calories, while a mimosa can have up to 120 calories depending on the champagne-to-orange juice ratio.
Finally, Bloody Marys are often served with a variety of garnishes, such as celery, olives, pickles, and even shrimp or bacon, which can add extra nutrients and turn your drink into a full meal.
So, if you're looking for a healthier option for your next brunch, a Bloody Mary is definitely a better choice than beer.
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Vodka is one of the healthier alcohols
While no alcohol is good for you, vodka is considered one of the "healthier" alcohols due to its low carbohydrate and calorie content. One serving of vodka contains only 97 calories and zero carbs. It is also generally considered a lower-calorie alcohol, making it a relatively healthier option for those watching their weight.
Vodka also has a number of surprising health benefits. Firstly, it is a natural disinfectant and antiseptic, making it useful for treating toothaches, cleaning wounds, and even cleaning your house. Vodka can also relieve stress, potentially even better than red wine. It can increase blood flow and circulation, preventing clots, strokes, and other heart diseases, as well as lower cholesterol. Additionally, vodka can be used as a skincare product, acting as a natural astringent or toner to deep-clean pores and treat acne. It can also tighten the skin, though it may have a dehydrating effect, so those with dry or sensitive skin should be cautious.
For those with rheumatoid arthritis, vodka may provide some relief. Patients who consumed semi-regular vodka drinks throughout the month reported feeling less pain and inflammation associated with their disease. Vodka can also reduce blood sugar levels, which may help reduce risks associated with diabetes.
However, it is important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking can lead to alcohol use disorder and negatively impact your health.
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Tomatoes are packed with nutrients
The lycopene in tomatoes is a powerful antioxidant that fights molecules called free radicals, which can damage cells and affect the immune system. This is why foods high in lycopene may reduce the likelihood of developing lung, stomach, or prostate cancer. Some research also shows that lycopene may help prevent disease in the pancreas, colon, throat, mouth, breast, and cervix.
In addition to lycopene, tomatoes contain beta-carotene, another antioxidant that gives foods a yellow or orange hue. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body. Tomatoes also contain naringenin, a flavonoid found in tomato skin that has been shown to decrease inflammation and protect against various diseases in mice.
The health benefits of tomatoes are not limited to their lycopene and beta-carotene content. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient and antioxidant that promotes healing and helps the body absorb iron. They are also a source of potassium, which is beneficial for blood pressure control and heart disease prevention.
Tomatoes contain vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health, and folate (vitamin B9), which is important for normal tissue growth and cell function, especially during pregnancy.
The combination of nutrients in tomatoes makes them a valuable part of a healthy diet.
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Celery is an excellent source of antioxidants
Celery is known to fight cancer, lower high blood pressure, ease insomnia, prevent kidney stones, and help with digestive problems. It can also prevent cardiovascular diseases, jaundice, liver and spleen diseases, and gout.
Celery contains a plant compound called apigenin, which is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant agent. It also contains a flavonoid called luteolin, which has been shown to have anticancer properties.
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Horseradish has health benefits
Horseradish is a root vegetable with a strong, biting flavour. It is commonly used as a condiment, by itself, or as an ingredient in dressings and sauces. Horseradish has been used medicinally for thousands of years, and it has several health benefits, including:
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Horseradish contains a chemical compound called sinigrin, which has been shown to help reduce inflammation by blocking or changing the parts of the immune system that cause it. Studies suggest that sinigrin could also help relieve symptoms of atherosclerosis.
Rich in Antioxidants
Horseradish is naturally rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from cellular damage by attaching themselves to free radicals.
Anti-cancer Properties
Early studies suggest that horseradish may prevent the growth of colon, lung, and stomach cancer cells. There is also research to indicate that horseradish contains bioactive compounds, including sinigrin, that may help the body fight off cancer.
Diuretic Qualities
Horseradish has diuretic properties, which means it promotes urination and helps expel toxins from the body. This can also help keep the liver clean.
Improves Respiratory Health
Horseradish can help clear sinus passages and mucus. It has been shown to effectively treat sinus infections and bronchitis.
Boosts Immunity
The nutrients in horseradish have strong antioxidant properties, which promote a healthy immune system. Horseradish is also high in vitamin C, which helps produce and stimulate white blood cell activity, crucial for a strong immune system.
Helps Digestion
Horseradish is a cholagogue, which means it triggers the gallbladder to release bile, aiding the digestive process and keeping the whole system healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
Bloody Marys are generally considered to be healthier than beer. Vodka, the typical alcohol in a Bloody Mary, is lower in calories and carbs than beer. In addition, Bloody Marys contain tomato juice, which is packed with nutrients and antioxidants like lycopene, which can help reduce the risk of cancer and lower blood pressure.
Bloody Marys are often touted as a hangover cure, thanks to their combination of a heavy vegetable base, salt, and alcohol. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including electrolytes, sodium, potassium, and Vitamin C.
A typical Bloody Mary consists of vodka, tomato juice, and various spices and flavorings such as Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic, herbs, horseradish, celery, and lemon or lime juice.
A typical Bloody Mary has around 125 calories or more, depending on the glass size and the amount of alcohol added.