Health Benefits of Cider

As if you needed another reason to enjoy a tall cool glass of

hard cider served over ice, here are a handful of health benefits associated with cider drinking.

• Clinical research trials have shown that there are high levels of antioxidants in cider. Of course, a diet rich in antioxidants may help protect against diseases, even diseases that can lead to cancer and cardiovascular problems. In fact, eight ounces of cider offer the same amount of antioxidants as a glass of red wine.
  
  
  


• Speaking of red wine, 6 ounces of red has 3 carb grams and 128 calories. A 12-ounce glass of sweet dessert wine, such as Riesling, with 42 carb grams, has 540 calories. Compare that to Crispin Light, which, in 12 ounces, has 110 calories and 8 grams of carbs.
  
  
  



• Scientists at Brewing Research International recently confirmed that cider is on par with red wine when it comes to high levels of antioxidants. In addition the antioxidants in hard cider are absorbed faster into the bloodstream, thus enhancing the health benefit.
  
  
  


• In 1676, John Worlidge wrote "Constant use of (cider) hath been found by long experience to avail much to health and long life, preserving the drinkers of it in their full strength and vigour even to very old age."
  
  
  



• While commercial apple juice can provide up to 25 mg/L total phenolics, cider apples can provide upwards of 4100 mg/L. Compare that to red wine which has up to 2500 mg/L and we're talking real health advantages to cider.
  
  


• A few great articles:
  
  Antioxidant-rich cider under the microscope
  
  Cider by-product provides natural alternative to tartrazine