Tag: Bitter drinks

According to a 2024 survey, over 60% of adults are actively trying to reduce their sugar intake, with many finding overly sweet drinks unappealing. So, what's a good drink that's not too sweet? From sophisticated sparkling concoctions to bitter and savory teas, there's a world of delicious, low-sugar beverages to discover.

First used medicinally to combat malaria, quinine is the bitter alkaloid from cinchona bark that has a rich history in beverages. While pure spirits do not naturally contain it, specific aromatized wines and liqueurs are purposefully made with it. If you've ever asked, "Which alcohol has quinine in it?", the answer lies in understanding these special categories of bitter drinks.

For centuries, bitters have been used in traditional medicine to remedy a variety of internal ailments, particularly those related to digestion. While modern palates have shifted toward sweeter tastes, a growing body of evidence suggests these botanical compounds offer numerous health benefits for the gut, liver, and overall metabolic health.

Historically used as an antimalarial medicine due to its quinine content, modern tonic water is primarily a carbonated beverage enjoyed for its distinct bitter taste. Knowing when should you drink tonic water depends on your desired experience, from crafting the perfect cocktail to a simple, refreshing sip.

Did you know the distinctive bitter taste in tonic water comes from quinine, a compound originally used to treat malaria hundreds of years ago? Today, regulated amounts of quinine are found in several common and specialty drinks, giving them their characteristic flavor.

According to research published by BBC, carbonated drinks can increase levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin by approximately 50% compared to non-carbonated drinks. While fizzy water can help, the question of what drink opens your appetite involves exploring a variety of options, from digestive herbs to nutrient-dense liquids, depending on your health goals.