overthehildablog@gmail.com

Over The Hilda

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Lifestyle & Leisure
  • Health & Wellbeing
  • Style & Beauty
  • Rants & Random Thoughts

How to stay healthy…drink Gin!

0
Hilda
Monday, 01 February 2021 / Published in Friends and Family, Health & Wellbeing, Home, Lifestyle & Leisure, News

How to stay healthy…drink Gin!

Gin has had very bad press for years because it was considered to be a drink that made you sad or depressed, or maudlin. Now there’s a word that has gone out of use!
I never found it so and, in fact, when I started drinking Gin in my early twenties, I found that it had the exact opposite effect on me. I chose Gin over Vodka or Beer because I was keen to appear more sophisticated. I also found that I didn’t knock the gin and tonic back half as quickly as the vodka and orange. 
A big fan of ‘Casablanca’ I was longing for a big love affair like Rick and Elsa’s. When I walked into various drinking establishments, I always hoped that some romantic hero would drawl, ‘Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine.’ It never happened.

When GG appeared on the scene, he was a whisky man, but I soon converted him to G&T. I have read several articles recently espousing the health benefits of Gin so I set myself the task of researching if there was any truth at all behind the claims or was it more ’Fake News’.

bottles of gin

FACTS

Gin dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used as a herbal medicine, and King William III, a Dutchman who became King of England in 1689, encouraged the drinking of Gin.

The word Gin was taken from the French word genievre and the Dutch jenever, both of which mean juniper, the plant used by distillers of the era to make medicines for apothecaries.

But juniper berries are still required as the main flavour for Gin under European Commission regulations.

The most common botanicals used in the production of Gin are:

Spices: juniper, cardamom, liquorice, caraway seed, grains of paradise, cinnamon, nutmeg, anise seed, cassia bark, orris root, ginger and saffron

Herbs: coriander and angelica

Fruit and nuts: lemon, orange, grapefruit and almonds

Each producer of Gin has its own secret mixture of these ingredients, which is a trademark of its brand. The most popular way to drink Gin is with tonic – another medicinal recommendation from the era when the British ruled India and used it as a way to prevent malaria because tonic contains quinine. I guess you would need to drink a lot of G&Ts to be guaranteed remaining malaria-free.

FINDINGS

The main ingredient is juniper berries, a Northern Hemisphere shrub, and it well documented that these berries are eaten by sheep and that they can both prevent and cure dropsy in the animals.

But what about humans, I hear you say.  Well, let’s examine the juniper berries themselves which are packed full of health benefits, such as:

  • 1. They help fight against infection.
  • 2. Also helps reduce the risk of heart attacks because they contain flavonoids which help prevent clogged arteries. They can help increase circulation and maintain vascular health.
  • 3. Full of anti-oxidants, they help the fight against wrinkles. Yes.
  • 4. They are used to help ease pain of arthritis and rheumatism. So that’s good.
  • 5. The berries have a natural diuretic effect and help flush toxins out of the system and ease bloating. I am all for that.
  • 6. You can dispense with your Vicks and have a gin instead, as it is supposed to clear congestion and improve breathing.
  • 7. It is relatively low in calories 97 seemingly.
  • 8. If you are diabetic it is one of the best drinks for you as there are only traces of sugar.
  • 9. Your digestive system will thank you as the berries increase enzymes.

So, if Gin is made from juniper berries, ergo, GIN is good for you!

Gin was often called Mother’s Ruin, but I prefer the evidence that points to the fact that it can actually reduce anxiety and improve your overall mood.

I also used it over thirty years ago to help with pain in my back, when I was confined to bed with a disc problem. Painkillers on their own did not work. I was unable to sit up and unable to sleep. So, I used to lie in bed, sucking the gin out of the stylist daughter’s bottle (she was 18 months old at the time!) complete with teat. I can attest to the fact that it eased the pain. My poor mother was worried I would become addicted to painkillers or gin or both. I didn’t.

 

Gin and Tonic

FAVOURITES

In recent years, I have been introduced to different brands and while there is nothing wrong with Gordon’s or Bombay Sapphire, I must say that I love all the newer gins on the market and have several new favourites. Although I certainly still use Schweppes, I have progressed on to the newer tonics also. No two G&Ts taste the same anymore and it is like coming to a new drink every time. My current favourites are Drumshambo Gunpowder Irish Gin,  Loch Measc Gin from Mayo and Minke Gin made in West Cork.

 

Shortcross Gin

When out for dinner or away on a break, we like to sample a new gin. Above, you can see two ShortCross gins from County Down (one with elderflower tonic), awaiting us on the bar at Mount Wolseley. Accompanied with strawberries and mint, I can assure you they were delightful.

WARNING

It goes without saying that all alcohol should be taken in moderation.

Julia Child claimed that the key to her long and healthy life (she died aged 91) were red meat and gin. I am not that big into red meat, so I think I will have to up my intake of gin!

This post was first published in 2017 and my love affair with gin continues. I was prompted to revisit it when I read the wonderful Roisin Ingle’s column in The Irish Times Newspaper over a week ago. Most people try to give up alcohol in January, but Roisin is a woman after my own heart. She made it part of her daily routine. Lockdown and January together are tough enough. Now before you get too excited, it is one gin,  albeit it is nearly every evening.

It is my one weakness!

Cheers.

And Hello February.

 

 

 

 

 

Tagged under: Bombay Sapphire Gin, Boyle's Gin, Dingle Gin, gin, Gordon's Gin, Gunpowder Gin, Hendrick's Gin, Irish Gins, Juniper Berries, Monkey 47 Gin, Mount Wolseley Hotel, Short Cross Gin, Spa & Golf Resort, Wild Burrow Gin

What you can read next

Wrinkles, wrinkles everywhere and not a cure in sight!
The Coffee Fix
Drink Lemon, Water and Ginger to stay Healthy

38 Comments to “ How to stay healthy…drink Gin!”

  1. Loretta Sayers says :Reply
    August 30, 2017 at 9:35 pm

    I read every word! And loved it. I used to drink Gin, as it was the only hard alcohol I could stand. I stopped a few years ago and drink red wine. But I love a good G&T on hot days! I’m going to have to check out some of the new gins out there.

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      September 13, 2017 at 12:49 pm

      Thanks so much Loretta… the new gins are fab..and the tonics. XXX

    2. Rebecca says :Reply
      February 2, 2021 at 1:49 am

      Gin i. Moderate amounts all the way.

  2. Karen Amantea says :Reply
    August 31, 2017 at 3:41 am

    “Chin-chin, a toast to your gin!”

    Such a fun and informative article…who knew the benefits of this healthy spirit? I for one, will be adding more gin into my cocktail repertoire – starting this evening as I’ve been hit by a backache. I will, however, be using a glass to sip from and not the bottle and teat you were so fond of back in the day 😉

    Thanks for the smiles, Hilda.

    Slainte!

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      September 13, 2017 at 12:47 pm

      Ah Karen.. thanks a mill. Hope that back pain is better xx

  3. Sharon Farrelly says :Reply
    August 31, 2017 at 10:41 pm

    Hilda, I loved this Post. My mum loves a G&T before a meal. Bacardi & Coke used to be my poison, but since goin to Spain 🇪🇸, nothing like a G&T in the sun. One of my favs, obviously Hendricks, but have tried, Drumshanbo Gunpowder & Pink Grapefruit, or recently in Marbella, Brockman, with Raspberry & Mint & Fever Tree Elderflower. OMG Heaven 😊😊

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      September 13, 2017 at 12:46 pm

      I must try this grapefruit..so many are reccommending it. Thanks Sharon for commenting xx

  4. jacqui says :Reply
    September 2, 2017 at 3:52 pm

    A great read Hilda, I do love a G & T – mixed with tonic and grapefruit! Love it.
    We recently went on a Gin tasting day in London – with 6 friends what a fab experience that was – finding out how gin was made, etc etc with a little tasting at the end too. Made for a good afternoon and something just that little bit different!
    Nice to see you blog … cheers to many more visits. x
    Jacqui
    http://www.mummabstylish.com
    PS Hope my challenge is going well – looking forward to seeing all the posts on Monday. x

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      September 13, 2017 at 12:45 pm

      Thanks Jacqui. I must try the grapefruit..is it fresh? Need to go on one of these gin tastings. Loved your challenge and now thinking of the next one..

  5. Robin LaMonte says :Reply
    June 27, 2018 at 1:30 pm

    Hilda,

    I am so happy you linked this to our link up party!
    Gin and tonic is a very healthy drink but I stopped drinking it when I switched to red wine for the health benefits red wine has! LOL!
    Yes, always do everything in moderation!

    Cheers my friend!
    Robin
    https://helloim50ish.com

  6. Theresa Donaldson says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 9:22 am

    Hi Hilda, I loved your article on Gin. I have been converted to G&T ‘s over the past few years as for most of my family it is their favourite tipple ! Great to know the health benefits also !
    My favourite also is Drumshambo Gunpowder , I will add Hendricks with ice and cucumber and I do enjoy Dingle gin with fever tree tonic. Enjoyed the vision of you sipping the gin through that babys bottle !! Anything that eases back pain is worth a shot !! So enjoy your articles xxx Theresa

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 2, 2021 at 9:30 am

      Theresa I am so pleased to hear from you. And I remember you are an afficiando. Hope to see you soon xx

  7. Theresa Donaldson says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 9:35 am

    Loved this very informative and fun article Hilda. I have been converted to G&T ‘s as for most of my family it is their favourite tipple !
    Very interesting to read all the health benefits ! My favourite is also Drumshambo gun metal with pink grapefruit . I am partical to a hendricks with a slice of cucumber and ice. Cant leave out Dingle Gin ! While on an Aviators whiskey tour in the Dingle Distillery last year we were all treated to a wonderful large Gin, ice and fever tree tonic !! I am totally now converted to G&T and what fun savouring the many new additions in recent years! Happy February 🍹

  8. Cheryl Tucker says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 1:28 pm

    Fun post! My favorite mixed drink is a fabulous gin martini two olives! Usually Blue Sapphire. Cheers! Have a great week!
    Cheryl
    Southwesterndesertliving.com

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 2, 2021 at 9:33 am

      I must try a martini. Never have.

  9. Midlife and Beyond says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 2:43 pm

    What a great read Hilda – you have educated me on the benefits of gin, which my mum used to drink. I have had a taste of the new flavoured gins which were very nice, though, I’m a whiskey/ginger girl myself (I blame my grandmother) who introduced it to me many moons ago. I’m such a lightweight now so tend to not drink much spirit. I even have lemonade in my red wine.

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 1, 2021 at 7:34 pm

      I am a lightweight now too. I like a predinner drink. But I am partial to a few glasses of bubbly now and again. x

  10. LA CONTESSA says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 5:38 pm

    I LOVED G&T TOO!I discovered them LATE in LIFE!
    I was never much of a drinker and now am not drinking at all!
    I considered it my SUMMER DRINK!
    Now that I know its GOOD for me I may have to give it a TRY!
    NOW I LOVE THE FACT YOU ALL SERVE THESE IN A WINE GLASS!
    THAT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD TO ME!AS I SERVE EVEN WATER IN STEMWARE!!!!!!
    SO much more fun to drink than a heavy HIGH BALL GLASS!
    LEAVE IT TO THE IRISH!
    YOU DO know my last name is KIRKPATRICK?
    HA!!
    XXX

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 1, 2021 at 7:31 pm

      Yes any drink in a lovely glass makes it an occasion. Looks and tastes better. But I realise you do that anyway. I drink less than I did. One glass is enough for me. I think it is an age thing…

  11. Laurie says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 5:41 pm

    Gin was always my favourite tipple! I can’t have it now due to my allergies. But that was my choice of drink when I could xx

  12. Hilda says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 7:28 pm

    Ah Laurie, it is my favourite drink. But I do like a glass of bubbly too….

  13. Hilda says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 7:31 pm

    Yes any drink in a lovely glass makes it an occasion. Looks and tastes better. But I realise you do that anyway. I drink less than I did. One glass is enough for me. I think it is an age thing…

  14. 1010ParkPlace says :Reply
    February 1, 2021 at 8:56 pm

    Gin was always my drink as well, but as I’ve gotten older, even one G&T makes me feel bad in the morning, so I’ve switched to Vodka. I do miss gin though. You’re right about the different tastes. I see Fever Tree tonic in one of your photos. I like that one as well. “Here’s looking at you, kid.” xoxo, Bogey & Brenda

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 2, 2021 at 9:27 am

      I find wine and me do not agree!!! Gin is ok…

  15. Rebecca says :Reply
    February 2, 2021 at 1:52 am

    I know what you’re saying Hilda. Moderate amounts of good fine gin is a delicacy in our home.

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 2, 2021 at 9:26 am

      Yes moderation is key. Thanks you

  16. Lise says :Reply
    February 2, 2021 at 1:58 pm

    I am one of those who gets melancholic drinking gin. Drank gin twice and ended up in tears. No other alcohol has this effect.

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 3, 2021 at 10:04 am

      I know it has that effect on some people. It is so weird. Stay away from it so!!

  17. Libbie@alifeunfolding says :Reply
    February 2, 2021 at 4:30 pm

    I am forwarding this to my daughter, a huge fan of gin, and she turned me onto the lovely spirits while we were visiting Ireland a few years ago.

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 3, 2021 at 10:02 am

      What I love is trying new gins with different tonics, fruits etc which make them all taste so different. xx

  18. ROBIN LAMONTE says :Reply
    February 2, 2021 at 4:52 pm

    I used to drink Gin until I had a healthy too much!
    I had heard that Gin and tonics were very healthy together!
    I may have to revisit Gin again!

    Happy February!

    1. Hilda says :Reply
      February 3, 2021 at 9:59 am

      Robin. It is worth a try. !!!!!

  19. Gail says :Reply
    February 3, 2021 at 7:47 am

    Aren’t the labels and bottles gorgeous? Very aspirational. I enjoyed your post but I have a confession- I don’t like gin. I wish I did, it sounds like a perfect ritual for the end of the day.

  20. Hilda says :Reply
    February 3, 2021 at 9:58 am

    So when we meet again it will have to be bubbly…xx

  21. Hilda says :Reply
    February 3, 2021 at 10:02 am

    What I love is trying new gins with different tonics, fruits etc which make them all taste so different. xx

  22. Hilda says :Reply
    February 3, 2021 at 10:02 am

    What I love is trying new gins with different tonics, garnishes etc which make them all taste so different. xx

  23. mireille says :Reply
    February 3, 2021 at 3:48 pm

    This was an interesting read. I have never gotten into the habit of drinking anything (I didn’t even drink coffee till 2 years ago at the age of 43!) so I have never developed a taste for any alcohol really. I do drink the occasional fruity drink when I am out which is only a few times a year.
    http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com

  24. Jessica A Jannenga says :Reply
    February 3, 2021 at 4:13 pm

    Hi Hilda!
    I didn’t know all of those health benefits of Gin. 🙂 I am not a fan but maybe I haven’t had the good stuff!
    I didn’t know the health benefits of juniper berries either, so this was interesting! That was great to read it helped with your pain too!
    Have a great week!
    jess xx
    http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Sign up here to receive updates straight to your mailbox
Loading

DELIGHTED TO BE IN THE TOP 15!

Fashion Over 50

overthehilda

overthehilda
Instagram post 17983770928858338 Instagram post 17983770928858338
Denim....but not jeans! This was our March challen Denim....but not jeans! This was our March challenge for 'Style Not Age'. Ok I cheated and did double denim. But nothing else looked right on me with the oversized jacket. Borrowed sunnies from @courtneysmithstyle who also took the pic. I decided that oversized denim was not for me so back to @primark with it. 
Good to experiment though and not get stuck in a rut!
Check out my friends @mummabstylish @isthismutton @annasislandstyle and @thestylesplash who have showcased lovely denim pieces.

#denimjacket 
#over50style 
#instagramover50 
#agelessstyle
 #styleinspo
 #stylenotage
 #casualoutfit 
#doubledenim 
#bevisible 
#over60style 
#thisis66
#overthehilda
#nevertooold
@irelandseyeknitwear launch Solstice Collection @irelandseyeknitwear launch Solstice Collection
Happy St Patrick's Day from Berlin.🤣 Really ne Happy St Patrick's Day from Berlin.🤣
 Really needed my faux fur @primark coat. The sun is shining but still cold. Berlin is fascinating and beautiful too. Having a ball on #presstrip @travel_department. Cannot wait to write about it on the blog. 

#greencoat
#citybreaks
#loveberlin
#guidedtravel 
#over50style 
#over60style 
#agelessstyle 
#visitberlin 
#irishtravelblogger 
#hatlover
Instagram post 17982069628991711 Instagram post 17982069628991711
Instagram post 18260628703183123 Instagram post 18260628703183123
Instagram post 18005894638538387 Instagram post 18005894638538387
'Buttoned up' is the challenge that Gail set The S 'Buttoned up' is the challenge that Gail set The Style Not Age gang this week. I found this Zara jacket in the back of my wardrobe. Seldom worn as a jacket, it works much better buttoned up and wearing nothing underneath. So thanks Gail.
Do pop over to the blog and check out my friends' wonderful looks.

#shoppedmywardrobe #stylishatanyage #stylenotage #over60style #agelessstyle 
#jacketlove #buttonedup #bluejeans
#over50style #casualoutfit #instagramover50 #styleinspo #bestylish
I love shopping. I mean actually visiting shops as I love shopping. I mean actually visiting shops as online is not my jam. I have to feel the material and try the garment on. Sometimes (well rarely) I buy it online after I go home and think about it.  Usually I just buy it. Who else is with me on this? 

Coat @selectedireland 
Boots @ficoboutiquedublin 
Bag @studio124dublin 
Scarf @zara 
Hat @primark

#over60style #agelessstyle #stylishatanyage #styleinspo
#fashionforall #nevertooold #instagramover50 #wearwhatyoulike
#bestylish #bootlove #followunder10k
A few hours in Dublin with @courtneysmithstyle and A few hours in Dublin with @courtneysmithstyle and Bodhi. Wearing @selectedireland coat, boots @ficoboutiquedublin and hat @primark, scarf @zara
Instagram post 17982930583925650 Instagram post 17982930583925650
Celebrated St Brigid's Day with @irelandseyeknitwe Celebrated St Brigid's Day with @irelandseyeknitwear yesterday. Their new Solstice collection (launching in March) is colourful, vibrant and contemporary, but still rooted in tradition. Check out stories for more pics.
Pic @kieranharnett

Wearing my cosy @selectedireland coat

#irelandseyeknitwear
#irishdesign
#sustainablefashion
#knitwear
#over60style
#stylishatanyage
#instagramover60
#irishknitwear
#bevisible
Load More… Follow on Instagram
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Style & Beauty
  • Health & Wellbeing
  • Lifestyle & Leisure
  • Rants & Random Thoughts

Recent Posts

  • Denim jacket Penneys

    ‘Denim But Not Jeans’ with Style Not Age

    The challenge of Denim for our March ‘Sty...
  • Ireland's Eye Knitwear

    IrelandsEye Knitwear Wows with Solstice Collection

    I recently had the pleasure of visiting Ireland...
  • view of Lisbon

    Top Tips for Visiting Lisbon

    Heading off to Berlin soon with Travel Departme...

OVER THE HILDA

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Lifestyle & Leisure
  • Health & Wellbeing
  • Style & Beauty
  • Rants & Random Thoughts

Copyright © 2021 overthehilda.ie | web by cloud nine

TOP
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT