Cava is a bubbly wine that has become more popular over the last few decades, but is it really healthy? Most folks enjoy it as a delicious substitute for champagne or other sparkling wines.

But, like any beverage, it's wise to understand the health effects before drinking it too much. Here, in the article “is cava healthy” we shall discuss the possible advantages and disadvantages of consuming cava, so that you can make the right choice regarding whether it is a part of your healthy lifestyle or not.

What and how is Cava healthy?

Cava is a type of fizzy wine produced mainly in Spain, usually with indigenous Spanish grape varieties such as Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada.

It's compared to champagne because it's produced through the same process referred to as "traditional method" or "method champenoise," whereby the wine is given a second fermentation within the bottle in order to obtain its characteristic fizz.

The variation between cava and champagne is in its place of manufacture.  Champagne may only be produced in the region of Champagne, France, while cava is primarily produced in Catalonia, Spain.  Although cava may be cheaper than champagne, it also has many comparable attributes and can provide a wonderful experience when served as part of the meal or on its own.

Cava vs. Champagne: Is One Better?

Cava and champagne contain the same composition because both use the same method of production.

There are, however, a few differences that can influence their nutritional value.

Both drinks include alcohol, and this is where most of the calories are.

A standard glass of cava (around 5 ounces) has approximately 90 to 100 calories. This is akin to a flute of champagne, which generally clocks in at around 90-100 calories also.  The biggest difference being that cava may have the possibility of lower sugar content based on the type.  Cava is listed as "brut" or "extra brut" on certain types, signaling lower sugar amounts, which would make it possibly more suitable for those monitoring sugar intake. Both of the wines can be consumed in moderation without affecting your health to a large extent, but keep in mind that an excessive intake can prove to be detrimental for your body. Now can you imagine that is cava healthy or Champagne?

Health Benefits of Cava

• Has Antioxidants: Similar to most wines, cava is rich in antioxidants, which are substances that guard the body against damaging free radicals.  Such antioxidants, including polyphenols, are believed to provide heart health benefits by enhancing blood flow and lessening the risk of heart disease.

• Low in Calories: Compared to other alcoholic drinks like beer or cocktails, cava is relatively low in calories.  If you’re watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy an occasional drink, cava can be a suitable choice.

• May Support Heart Health: Moderate drinking, including cava, has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease.  Several studies indicate that daily consumption of a glass of cava could contribute to the improvement of heart health by increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and decreasing levels of bad cholesterol (LDL).

• Good for Socializing and Mental Health: Although cava does not have a direct positive effect on mental health, moderate consumption in a social environment can contribute to stress reduction and relaxation.  Having a glass of cava with friends can enhance mood and create positive social interactions, which are essential for mental health. Is  cava healthy? Yes, then it is healthy. 

 Cava and Its Impact on Weight

If you’re concerned about weight gain, it’s important to know that drinking too much cava can contribute to extra calorie consumption.  While cava is low in calories compared to other alcoholic beverages, it’s still an alcoholic drink that adds up over time.  Regularly drinking multiple glasses of cava can result in excess calorie intake, leading to weight gain and dream about losing weight no more exist.

But if drunk in moderation, cava is compatible with a healthy, balanced diet.  As with any beverage, portion control is the key to it not having a detrimental effect on your health or waistline.

 Does Cava Have a High Sugar Content?

The sugar level in cava can also depend on the type of cava and the method of production.  Cava exists in varying degrees of sweetness, including brut, extra brut, and semi-sec.  Brut cava usually has the lowest amount of sugar, whereas semi-sec and sweet cavas have more sugar.

For people who care about their sugar consumption, brut or extra brut cava is a decent option.  These types do not have as much sugar and will give you a drier, less sweet flavor.  It's always best to read the label for exact information on sugars in case you're watching your sugar level.

 Cava and Your Digestive System

Consuming cava, particularly in moderation, is not likely to lead to any major digestive problems in most individuals.  Indeed, certain research indicates that moderate use of sparkling wine can even contribute to digestion as a result of its effervescence.  The carbonation in cava can actually stimulate gastric juices to be produced, which may assist with digestion, particularly after a big meal.

That being noted, too much alcohol can disturb the lining of the stomach and cause digestive distress.  So, if you have a delicate stomach or other digestive problems, it's crucial to consume cava in moderation.

Alcohol and Its Effects on the Body

Although cava can be consumed responsibly, one should consider the possible ill effects of alcohol on the body.  Excessive consumption of alcohol, including cava, can cause a host of health issues, such as liver damage, high blood pressure, and increased risk of certain cancers.

Moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption.  The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than one drink per day and men consume no more than two drinks per day.  A drink is considered 5 ounces of wine, so it’s important to keep this in mind when drinking cava.

 Is Cava healthy for a nice Lifestyle?

Cava can be included in a healthy lifestyle when it is taken in moderation.  It has some health benefits, including antioxidants and a fairly low calorie content, but it should not be the sole health booster.  As with any alcoholic drink, cava should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Overall cava is nessecary in our health triangle.

Conclusion

In summary, cava can be a healthy beverage choice if taken moderately.  It has multiple advantages in terms of antioxidants and heart health without being high in calories.  That being said, like any other alcohol, it needs to be taken responsibly to prevent any harmful effects on health.

If you like cava and wish to include it in your healthy living, choose those with less sugar content and keep an eye on portion sizes.  In the end, cava can be a cool, pleasant drink, but it's essential to consume it in moderation to enjoy its benefits without risking your health.

 FAQs

Is cava healthy than champagne for your health?  

Both cava and champagne are similar in terms of calories and alcohol content.  Cava can sometimes have lower sugar content, making it a slightly healthier option.

Is cava healthy for weight loss?  

Cava is relatively low in calories, but drinking it in excess can lead to weight gain.  Moderation is key.

Is cava healthy for the digestive system?

Moderate use of cava can help facilitate digestion because of its effervescence and stimulate gastric juices.

How many glasses of cava are safe to consume on a daily basis?

 Women should limit it to one glass (around 5 ounces) a day and men to up to two glasses, according to health authorities.

Which cava is healthy in all cavas?

 Brut and extra brut cava tend to have less sugar and thus are healthier options than sweeter types.