Let’s admit it; there is something about a Bloody Mary that looks so damn good. Maybe it’s the combination of bright red tomato juice and all the colorful garnishes, or maybe it’s the fact that it’s a meal in a glass. This classic brunch drink is a great way to start your day or enjoy brunch with friends.
But why do people drink Bloody Marys? Is it just for Instagram likes?
Well, there are a few reasons why people love this classic cocktail. For one, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals thanks to tomato juice. And, as we all know, tomatoes are super good for you. They’re full of lycopene, an antioxidant that can help protect your cells from damage.
We will dive deeper into the science of it to better understand why this cocktail is so good for you so you can enjoy your next Bloody Mary with a little more knowledge about what you’re drinking.
The Science Behind the Bloody Mary
What’s in a Blood Mary, you may ask?
Well, the answer is a lot of good stuff: A Bloody Mary is a cocktail made with tomato juice, vodka, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and celery.
It is usually served with a garnish such as a celery stalk, pickle, or olive. A non-alcoholic version of this cocktail is made with Clamato juice or apple cider vinegar.
First off, let’s talk about tomato juice. As we mentioned, the tomato juice in Bloody Mary provides good vitamins and minerals. But, it also has something good for you – lycopene.
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect your cells from damage. It’s been linked with a lower risk of some types of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Plus, it can help to keep your skin looking young and healthy.
Tomatoes are not the only source of lycopene – you can also find it in watermelons, pink grapefruits, and papayas. But, they are one of the best sources.
And that’s why the tomato juice in Bloody Mary is so good for you.
The Benefits of Drinking a Bloody Mary
So, we know that the tomato juice in Bloody Mary is good for you, thanks to the lycopene. But what does that mean for your health?
Clear Sinuses
For one, lycopene can help to clear your sinuses. That’s because it’s an anti-inflammatory, and inflammation is a major cause of congestion.
The spices in a Bloody Mary (like celery salt, black pepper, and horseradish) can also help clear sinuses and relieve congestion.
So, if you’re feeling stuffed up, a Bloody Mary might be just what you need.
A Hangover Cure
Some people also swear by the Bloody Mary as a hangover cure.
That’s because tomato juice can help replenish the electrolytes and fluids you’ve lost during a night of drinking. Plus, the spices in the cocktail can help to settle your stomach.
Of course, we’re not saying you should drink a Bloody Mary every time you go out. But, if you overdo it, this cocktail might help you feel better the next day.
A Boost of Energy
Thanks to the vitamins and minerals in a Bloody Mary, it can also give you a little boost of energy.
So, if you’re feeling sluggish after a late night or a big meal, this cocktail might be just what you need to get moving again.
It Helps Regulate Blood Pressure
Tomatoes are also a good source of potassium, an electrolyte that helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate.
Paired with the low sodium content of tomato juice, a Bloody Mary can help to keep your blood pressure in check.
Non-Alcoholic Option – Good for Pregnant Women
Finally, the Bloody Mary is also good for pregnant women. And yes, to substitute the alcohol, go for something like apple cider vinegar.
The Bloody Mary is a good source of folic acid, which is important for developing the baby’s neural tube. Folic acid can also help prevent brain and spine congenital disabilities.
So, a Bloody Mary might be a good cocktail choice if you’re pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant.
Takeaway
The Bloody Mary is a delicious and nutritious cocktail. Thanks to the tomato juice, it’s packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that can help to protect your cells from damage.
It’s also a good source of potassium, folic acid, and other vitamins and minerals. So, if you’re looking for a cocktail that’s good for you, the Bloody Mary is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can get drunk off of a Bloody Mary. However, we don’t recommend drinking too many, as they are high in calories and can lead to weight gain. Plus, tomato juice can be acidic and hard on your stomach. So, remember to drink in moderation.