Is Hard Cider Good for Your Health?

These days, it seems that everyone associates fall with pumpkin spice lattes and pumpkin-brewed beers. However, long before the pumpkin-flavored-everything craze, hard apple cider was the go-to autumn drink of choice. And for many, it still is! Whether served cold over ice or warm and mulled, hard cider combines the fruit-forwardness of luscious apples with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other comforting spices. Of course, with so many hard cider brands on the market, the beverage has morphed from a fall-only drink to something that can be enjoyed year-round.

At Joe Canal’s in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, whether hard cider has health benefits is one of the most frequently asked hard cider questions we receive. While the overconsumption of alcohol can lead to severe health consequences, there could be some benefits to drinking hard cider when compared to other types of alcoholic beverages. Here, our team discusses the alcoholic beverage and potential hard cider health benefits.

What Is Hard Cider?

Hard cider is freshly pressed apple juice combined with a fermented yeast mixture, though hard cider can also be made with other fruit juices. Hard apple cider has a lower alcohol-by-volume (ABV) content than many other alcoholic beverages, averaging about 4.5 to 6%. Hard cider has a similar mouthfeel to sparkling wine and ranges from dry to sweet. Consumers can find hard cider in large bottles similar to wine, as well as single-serve bottles and cans.

It’s important to note that though hard cider may have some possible health benefits, it can often have higher sugar content and contain around 140 to 200 calories per serving. To avoid weight gain and other health problems, drinking responsibly in moderation is a must.

Potential Hard Cider Health Benefits

You may have heard of the health benefits possible from drinking wine, beer, or spirits, and there are more than a few reputable sources claiming the same for hard cider. When consuming in moderation, some of the potential hard cider health benefits you can reap include:

Increased Intake of Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and Fiber

Apples are considered a superfood, as they contain a host of crucial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By choosing hard cider over another type of alcoholic beverage, it’s possible to increase your intake of potassium, iron, vitamins A and C, and calcium, as well as fiber.

Reduced Risk of Certain Diseases

Polyphenols, compounds acting as antioxidants, are found in apple cider, helping the body protect itself against cell damage and free radicals. This means a lower risk of developing heart disease, specific types of cancer, and diabetes. Cider also contains soluble fibers, which can contribute to reducing cholesterol levels, preventing buildup in blood vessels, and decreasing the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Gluten-Free

Many hard ciders are gluten-free, which is great news for anyone with Celiac disease, a condition caused by a gluten allergy. For those it affects negatively, gluten can cause inflammation in the intestines, irritability, stomach pain, and other symptoms.

Better Gut Health

Thanks to the insoluble fibers and alkalizing minerals found in hard apple cider, a glass could help in several ways, including:

• Aiding with proper digestion
• Decreasing acid reflux
• Feeling fuller faster and for longer, assisting in weight management
• Relaxing the intestines for a better-functioning digestive system
• Relieving constipation or irritable bowel syndrome

Find Hard Apple Cider at Joe Canal’s

Whether you want to access hard cider health benefits or just want a crisp, refreshing beverage to enjoy in the fall or any time of year, visit Joe Canal’s in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Our staff is here to help you find the best hard cider for your taste preferences and budget. We only carry brands that we know, love, and trust, so you can feel great about the selection you take home or serve to your patrons. For more information about hard cider or the rest of our inventory, contact us today.