It's been well established I like the cocktails, even though some people think that makes me an irresponsible twit. It turns out it makes me an irresponsible and slightly healthier twit. My husband and I often have a cocktail made with pomegranate juice in the evenings after he's had a long run (no, I don't run but I need antioxidants too!) and we joke about it's high antioxident content and how it's actually a 'restorative health drink'. But it turns out, we were right.
Researchers found that adding ethanol, the type of alcohol found in tequila, rum, vodka and others, boosted the antioxidant ingredients in strawberries and blackberries. (Come on pomegranate!). Antioxidants are chemicals found in colored fruit or vegatable which stop cell damaging free radicals. People who eat these fruits and vegetables have less heart disease, cancer and some neurological diseases. You fell asleep? Me too. Logan's tried several time to explain the antioxidant/free radical thing but I fall asleep every time. Just get the shaker out.
This study was not funded by me personally. It was accidentally discovered as researchers from Thailand with the US Department of Agriculture were exploring ways to keep strawberries fresh during storage. Now go get healthier!