Tonic water is not new; it has been used as a cocktail base for decades. The sweet and bitter flavours combine perfectly to fulfil every tongue’s fizzy-drinking desire. It is a very simple drink but has many interesting properties. Apart from tasting delicious, it contains quinine, which has acquired interest due to its possible health benefits. In this post, you will get to know about tonic water, its side effects, and the possible benefits of drinking tonic water.
Tonic Water: A Brief Overview
Indian tonic water, sometimes referred to as tonic water, is a fizzy drink with a pronounced bitter flavour. It gives drinks a tart and refreshing flavour when used as a mixer in cocktails.
Tonic water was first created as a malaria remedy. Quinine, which has antimalarial qualities, was utilised to make a tonic that might aid in preventing illness. Modern tonic water, on the other hand, usually has far lower quinine concentrations and is valued more for its distinctive flavour than for its therapeutic qualities.
The carbonation of the tonic water gives it a bubbly, soda-like feel. Also, it’s vital to remember that tonic water is not a calorie or sugar-free beverage because it often uses sweeteners for better taste.
What is Quinine Tonic Water?
Originally, the only ingredients in medicinal tonic water were carbonated water and a significant quantity of quinine. The majority of contemporary tonic waters are frequently boosted with citrus flavours and have significantly less quinine. Tonic water tastes less harsh because it contains less quinine. Additionally, it is typically sweetened, frequently by adding sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. It is crucial to remember that too much consumption of quinine tonic water can have negative effects.
Benefits of Tonic Water
Here are some of the notable tonic water benefits –
1. Muscle Cramp Relief
Quinine is a substance that is frequently found in tonic water and is said to provide muscle-relaxing effects. Thus, tonic water drinking will reduce the occurrence and degree of muscle cramps.
2. Antioxidant Properties
Tonic water has quinine, an antioxidant which could alleviate oxidative stress within the body. Antioxidants are essential because they prevent damaging free radicals and improve overall health.
3. Digestive Aid
The tonic water increases bitterness, which excites digestive juices and promotes dilation of the intestines. However, further research is still needed to measure the extent of such impacts.
Side Effects of Tonic Water
While this water can be enjoyed safely in moderation, excessive consumption or sensitivity to its ingredients may lead to specific side effects. Below, we have mentioned a few tonic water side effects:
1. Quinine Toxicity
If you drink too much tonic water that contains a large quantity of quinine, it may result in quinine toxicity. Chest pain, blurred vision, eye pain, headaches, vomiting, sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, and organ damage are some of the possible symptoms. So, to avoid these symptoms, keep track of your daily quinine consumption and limit it.
2. Sugar and Calorie Content
Sugar content and calories are other side effects. Overeating sugar will result in obesity, fatness and diabetes. To avoid its side effects, choose low-sugar or no-sugar products.
3. Interactions with Medications
It goes without saying that if you take any medicine for your health and have some ailment, you should first consult your doctor. Furthermore, quinine may interact with other drugs (like antidepressants or blood thinners and anti-coagulant medications) sometimes to cause severe health problems.
Uses of Tonic Water
Here are some of the tonic water uses:
1. Culinary Uses
Use tonic water if you wish to give your cuisine a distinctive flavour. It can also be used for garnishes, glazes and sauces.
2. Non-Alcoholic Refreshment
Tonic water is an excellent non-alcoholic beverage. Furthermore, adding fruits and herbs will improve the flavour even more.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a clear idea of the health and wellbeing benefits of tonic water. As you have likely noticed, consuming it excessively without knowledge of its composition can also result in major health problems. So, practice caution and moderation and consult a medical professional before consuming this rather interesting beverage.
