America’s Bourbon Boom Over. Now Hangover Is Here
For years, America’s passion for bourbon has been unwavering. The once-trademark American whiskey has seen a resurgence in popularity, with sales soaring and distilleries springing up across the country. But as the dust settles on the bourbon boom, a new challenge is emerging: an unprecedented hangover.
Once the preserve of traditionalists and connoisseurs, bourbon is now a mainstream sensation. From budget-friendly bottles to premium releases, America’s love affair with bourbon shows no signs of slowing. With producers struggling to keep up with demand, it’s no surprise that the industry is booming. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, American whiskey sales have risen by 7.2 percent, with bourbon leading the charge.
But with great success comes great responsibility. As bourbon enthusiasts, we’ve largely given little thought to the consequences of our hard-earned sips. Unfortunately, the evidence is mounting that our love for bourbon is taking a toll on our health. Research by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) has revealed that over 16 million Americans struggle with an alcohol use disorder (AUD). While it’s difficult to pinpoint a direct link between bourbon and hangover syndrome, it’s undeniable that excessive drinking is a growing concern.
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