Tonic water has been on the rise in popularity lately as a healthy alternative to sodas and other sugary fizzy drinks. It is also a very popular mixer used in cocktail crafting. There are even songs out there now, raising the prestige of certain brands to that of luxury labels. Tonic water shouldn’t be confused with seltzer water though. Seltzer water is water that is infused with carbonation. Tonic water is a carbonated drink that has quinine dissolved into it. Quinine is a bitter tasting compound that is extracted from cinchona bark, a medication used to treat babesiosis and malaria.
Why is it harmful?
Quinine is supposed to be used solely for medicinal purposes. If used on a daily basis it can actually lead to certain healthy conditions. It shouldn’t be consumed without being prescribed by a doctor.
Uses of quinine
Quinine was originally created to be used as a malaria treatment. It is traditionally consumed in pill form to kill the germs responsible for malaria. But its bitter taste makes certain mixed drinks taste great.
Who should avoid quinine?
According to medical professionals, quinine should not be taken by people suffering from low blood sugar, abnormal heart rhythms, kidney disease, or liver disease. It is also very bad for pregnant mothers. Coincidentally, people suffering from these conditions should not be drinking either.
Side effects of tonic water
Regularly drinking tonic water can cause some serious side effects, that while not life threatening, can impact the quality of your life. Some of the primary side effects are stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, anxiety, and vomiting. In extreme cases, exposure to quinine can result in internal bleeding problems, kidney damage, and an abnormal heartbeat.
