Sake, a Japanese rice wine, is similar to beer because it’s produced through a brewing process, but it’s more like tea as far as health benefits are concerned. Most sakes average only 40 calories serving, making them a great alternative to heavier beers or hard liquors that can contain as many as 250 calories per serving. If you want to try sake for the first time, Asia Nine, an Asian fusion restaurant with locations in Washington, DC, and Gaithersburg, MD, has over 50 varieties to choose from.

Besides being a lighter alcoholic drink option, there are many other reasons sake is a better choice than beer or traditional liquor. Here are a few you should know about:

• It Helps Boost Selenium Levels: Selenium is an essential nutrient that aids in the health of the heart, joints, and eyes, as well as the immune and reproductive systems. An 8-ounce serving of sake contains 3.3 micrograms of selenium, though you will have to consume other foods that naturally contain it to obtain the 55 micrograms recommended each day. Combine sake with sushi that contains tuna, flounder, or scallops, and you will be set for the day.

• It’s Easier On Your Stomach: Drinking any type of alcohol will have some repercussions on your stomach, but sake seems to produce the least irritation. If you suffer from stomach ulcers, gastritis, or irritable bowel syndrome, choosing sake could create fewer problems for you than beer and hard liquor.

• It Doesn't Impede Sleep: If you've ever had one too many beers or alcoholic drinks, you probably noticed how they derailed your ability to get a good night's sleep. Because sake contains fewer sugars and byproducts believed to cause sleep disturbances than other alcoholic beverages, you will be able to have a glass or two and not worry about waking up early from your peaceful slumber.

If you are a sake connoisseur or would like to try it for the first time, visit Asia Nine. To learn more about their available sakes, call (202) 629-4355 for their Washington location, or (301) 330-9997 for their Gaithersburg location. You also can visit this Asian fusion restaurant online to check out each location’s menu and sushi selection. Be sure to follow them on Facebook to stay up to date on their specials.