Sick? This Apple Cider Hot Toddy Could Be Your New Best Friend!

Apple cider hot toddies are often a go-to comfort drink when you’re battling a cold or flu. With its blend of warm apple cider, soothing honey, and aromatic spices, it’s easy to see why people turn to this cozy beverage for relief. However, while it may help ease symptoms temporarily, it’s essential to remember that this drink isn’t a miracle cure for colds or flu.

What’s in a Hot Toddy?

Traditionally, a hot toddy consists of hot water, lemon, honey, and a splash of alcohol, typically whiskey or rum. It’s been used for centuries as a folk remedy for sore throats and congestion.

In recent years, adding apple cider to the mix has become a trend. Apple cider is rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which are plant compounds known to fight inflammation and support immune function. As registered dietitian Kristen Carli explains:

“Apple cider contains polyphenols, antioxidant plant compounds that help neutralize free radicals, which play a role in inflammation and immune function.”

Honey, another common ingredient in hot toddies, offers its own health benefits. Known for its antimicrobial properties, honey can help reduce the frequency and severity of coughs, especially at night.

“If you add honey, you may also receive the antimicrobial benefits as well,” said Carli. This can make a hot toddy feel even more soothing when you’re dealing with a sore throat.

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Don’t Rely on It as a Miracle Cure

However, experts caution that they shouldn’t be relied on as a miracle cure. It’s important to remember that while the warm apple cider, honey, and spices in a hot toddy can provide temporary comfort, they don’t address the underlying causes of illness. Staci Gulbin, a registered dietitian, advises that:

“Although some of the ingredients of hot toddy (such as honey) may hold health benefits, it doesn’t mean that this drink should be a part of your holiday health routine,” she explains.

@colettescocktails

twist or tonic: apple hot toddy 🥃🍯🍎🫖🍋 twist: •1.5 oz bourbon •3/4 oz apple cider •1/2 oz lemon juice •1/2 oz rich honey apple syrup •fill up to 3/4 of the rest of the glass with spiced tea •fill the rest of the glass with hot water •add apple slice, lemon slice and cinnamon stick •stir and enjoy!! tonic: •1 oz apple cider •1/2 oz lemon juice •1/2 oz rich honey apple syrup •fill up to 3/4 of the rest of the glass with spiced tea •fill the rest of the glass with hot water •add apple slice, lemon slice and cinnamon stick •stir and enjoy!! spiced tea: •add 2 cinnamon sticks, 6-8 cloves, 1 halved nutmeg, 1 star anise and 3 cardamom seeds to a heat-safe glass •add about 1 cup hot water •let steep for 5 minutes •strain out spices rich honey apple syrup: •add 2 parts honey and 1 part water to a small pot •add diced apple (1 apple per 1 cup honey) •let simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stir occasionally •remove from heat and let full cool •strain out apples #applecocktails #applemocktails #applecider #mocktails #fallmocktails

♬ original sound – Colette’s Cocktails

How Warm Drinks Soothe Your Sickness

One of the main benefits of a hot toddy is its warmth. A steaming cup can soothe a sore throat, alleviate congestion, and provide comfort during a cold or flu. The warmth may help relax your muscles, ease throat irritation, and even improve sinus pressure. Carli explains, “The warmth may promote relaxation, ease throat irritation, and improve congestion.” Plus, warm liquids can help thin mucus, encouraging drainage and offering temporary relief from sinus pressure.

While the warmth of the drink may provide soothing effects, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t translate into a boost for your immune system. Instead, the hot toddy works more as a form of symptom relief rather than a remedy that strengthens your defenses against illness.

An Alcohol-Free Option

A non-alcoholic apple cider hot toddy is a great alternative. By simply omitting the liquor and focusing on the apple cider, honey, and spices, you can still enjoy the comforting warmth and soothing properties of the drink without the downsides of alcohol.

While apple cider hot toddies can help ease symptoms, they shouldn’t be considered a replacement for other effective ways to support immunity, such as adequate sleep, a nutritious diet, and physical activity. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a doctor for proper medical advice and treatment.