How can beer positively impact your health. What are the potential benefits of moderate beer consumption. Which components in beer contribute to its health effects. Is beer actually good for you in moderation.

The Unexpected Health Benefits of Beer: An Evidence-Based Look

For centuries, beer has been a popular beverage enjoyed around the world. While excessive alcohol consumption is undoubtedly harmful, emerging research suggests that moderate beer intake may offer some surprising health benefits. Let’s examine the potential positive effects of beer on wellbeing, backed by scientific studies.

Cardiovascular Health: How Beer May Protect Your Heart

Moderate beer consumption has been associated with several cardiovascular benefits:

• Reduced risk of heart disease
• Lower blood pressure
• Increased HDL (good) cholesterol
• Improved blood flow

A meta-analysis published in Pathophysiology of Haemostasis and Thrombosis found that moderate beer intake was linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The alcohol and polyphenol compounds in beer may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels.

The Role of Alcohol in Heart Health

While the alcohol in beer contributes to some of its cardiovascular effects, it’s important to note that excessive drinking negates these benefits and increases health risks. Moderation is key – generally defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Bone Health: Can Beer Help Strengthen Your Skeleton?

Beer contains dietary silicon, a mineral that plays a crucial role in bone formation and maintenance. Research suggests that moderate beer consumption may help:

• Increase bone density
• Reduce risk of osteoporosis
• Improve overall bone health

A study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture found that some beers, particularly pale ales, have high levels of bioavailable silicon. This mineral is easily absorbed by the body and may contribute to stronger bones.

Beer vs. Other Alcoholic Beverages for Bone Health

Does beer offer unique benefits for bone health compared to other alcoholic drinks? While more research is needed, the silicon content in beer sets it apart from wines and spirits, which generally contain lower levels of this bone-boosting mineral.

Cognitive Function: Beer’s Potential Impact on Brain Health

Moderate beer consumption has been linked to potential cognitive benefits:

• Reduced risk of cognitive decline
• Lower incidence of dementia
• Improved memory and concentration

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that moderate alcohol intake, including beer, was associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but it may be related to improved cardiovascular health and reduced inflammation.

The Xanthohumol Factor

Xanthohumol, a flavonoid compound found in hops, has shown promise in laboratory studies for its potential neuroprotective properties. While more human research is needed, this compound may contribute to beer’s potential cognitive benefits.

Digestive Health: How Beer Might Aid Your Gut

Beer may have positive effects on digestive health in several ways:

• Increased beneficial gut bacteria
• Improved digestion
• Reduced risk of gallstones

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that moderate beer consumption increased the diversity of gut bacteria, which is associated with better overall health. The polyphenols and fermentation byproducts in beer may contribute to this effect.

Beer as a Prebiotic?

Can beer act as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria? Some research suggests that the compounds in beer, particularly from malted barley and hops, may have prebiotic properties. However, more studies are needed to fully understand this potential benefit.

Diabetes Risk: Beer’s Potential Role in Blood Sugar Management

Moderate beer consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes in some studies. Potential mechanisms include:

• Improved insulin sensitivity
• Better glucose metabolism
• Anti-inflammatory effects

A large-scale study published in Diabetes Care found that moderate alcohol consumption, including beer, was associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes in both men and women. However, it’s important to note that excessive alcohol intake can increase diabetes risk.

The Importance of Beer Type and Quantity

Does the type of beer matter for potential diabetes benefits? Some research suggests that craft beers and those higher in hops may offer more protective effects due to their higher polyphenol content. However, moderation remains crucial regardless of beer type.

Cancer Risk: The Complex Relationship Between Beer and Cancer

The relationship between beer consumption and cancer risk is complex and varies depending on the type of cancer:

• Potential reduced risk of kidney cancer
• Possible increased risk of certain cancers with heavy consumption
• Mixed evidence for other cancer types

A meta-analysis published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that moderate beer consumption was associated with a lower risk of kidney cancer. However, excessive alcohol intake is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer.

The Role of Antioxidants in Beer

Can the antioxidants in beer help protect against cancer? Beer contains various antioxidants, including polyphenols, which may help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. However, the potential cancer-protective effects of these compounds are likely outweighed by the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption.

Skin Health: Can Beer Benefit Your Complexion?

Some of the compounds found in beer may have potential benefits for skin health:

• Antioxidant properties
• Potential anti-aging effects
• Vitamins and minerals that support skin health

The B vitamins, silicon, and antioxidants in beer may contribute to healthier skin when consumed in moderation. Some people even use beer as a topical treatment, claiming benefits for hair and skin, though scientific evidence for these uses is limited.

Beer-Based Skincare Products

Are beer-based skincare products effective? While some cosmetic companies market beer-infused products, claiming benefits from the drink’s nutrients and antioxidants, more research is needed to determine their efficacy compared to traditional skincare ingredients.

Stress Relief and Mental Health: The Social Benefits of Beer

Moderate beer consumption in social settings may offer psychological benefits:

• Stress reduction
• Improved mood
• Enhanced social bonding

A study published in Adaptive Human Behavior and Physiology found that moderate alcohol consumption in social settings was associated with increased endorphin release, promoting feelings of wellbeing and social bonding. However, it’s crucial to note that alcohol should not be used as a primary coping mechanism for stress or mental health issues.

The Importance of Responsible Drinking

How can one enjoy the potential benefits of beer without risking negative health consequences? The key is moderation and being aware of individual health status and risk factors. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider about alcohol consumption, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications.

In conclusion, while moderate beer consumption may offer some surprising health benefits, it’s essential to approach these findings with caution. The potential risks of excessive alcohol intake far outweigh any possible benefits. As with many aspects of health, balance and moderation are crucial. Enjoying an occasional beer as part of a healthy lifestyle may contribute to wellbeing, but it should never be considered a primary health strategy.

Remember, the healthiest approach is to maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, manage stress, and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice on alcohol consumption and overall health.

Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions

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7 science-backed reasons beer may be good for you

Sometimes there’s nothing better than cracking open a cold one after a long day.

We tend to view beer as a guilty pleasure — maybe because we associate all those suds with a beer gut and inevitable weight gain. But you’ll be happy to hear that, when consumed in moderation (we repeat, moderation), the benefits of a pint of beer go may far beyond helping you wind down after a stressful week.

What exactly constitutes “drinking in moderation,” anyway? The Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines moderate alcohol consumption as having one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. While research does show there is room for imbibing as part of a balanced, healthy diet, they also advise not to start drinking if you currently abstain.

But if you do keep a six-pack in the fridge, pop one open and say “cheers” to these potential health benefits.

It contributes to our daily nutrient intake

Many experts agree that beer is more like a food than a beverage — after all, it is referred to as liquid bread. If you’ve ever sipped a pint of Guinness, you know exactly what they mean. While that does mean you need to be mindful of how many calories you’re sipping in each glass, it also means the liquid contains some good-for-you nutrients.

Related

According to one study, “beer contains more protein and B vitamins than wine. The antioxidant content of beer is equivalent to that of wine, but the specific antioxidants are different because the barley and hops used in the production of beer contain flavonoids different from those in the grapes used in the production of wine.”

Charlie Bamforth, a professor of brewing sciences at the University of California, Davis, also claims that beer trumps wine when it comes to B vitamins, phosphorus, folate and niacin. Beer also has significant protein and some fiber. And it is one of a few significant dietary sources of silicon, which research shows can help prevent osteoporosis. Preliminary research by Bamforth also suggests that beer may contain prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in our gut.

It may lower your risk of diabetes

A study published in the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes found that people who drink 3 to 4 times per week were less likely to develop diabetes than those who never drink. And when compared to those who didn’t drink beer, men who enjoyed between one and six beers per week had a 21 percent lower risk of diabetes.

It may make your heart healthier

Wine tends to be the choice on the bar menu associated with a healthy heart. But there’s reason to love beer for the same reason. A preliminary study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2016 followed 80,000 participants for six years and found that moderate drinkers had the slowest decline in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol, levels — and in turn, a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research also shows that of men who have already suffered a heart attack, those that drank beer moderately were 42 percent less likely to die of heart disease.

It may build stronger bones

Move over milk — could there be a new bone-building beverage in the fridge? A review published in the International Journal of Endocrinology found that moderate beer consumption increased bone density in men. No, it’s not the buzz that’s helping those bones grow: it may be the silicon found in your pint, which is an essential mineral for bone formation.

It may boost brain power

Another benefit of having silicon on the ingredients list? It helps protect your brain from compounds thought to eventually cause cognitive diseases. Which may be why researchers at Loyola University in Chicago found that moderate beer drinkers are 23 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia than those who don’t drink beer. Another explanation: Beer is shown to raise good cholesterol which improves blood flow to the brain.

And ordering a few pints may give you a boost at trivia night. According to one study, people with a slight beer buzz solved puzzles faster than their sober counterparts. In fact, alcohol made subjects almost 30 percent more likely to find the unexpected solution.

It cleans your teeth

A study published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology found that beer can keep bacteria from forming — and growing — on your teeth. The researchers tested the effects of beer extracts on the bacteria that form biofilm and promote tooth decay and gum disease, and found that even the weakest extract of beer tested blocked the activity of bacteria. Beer was also one of the best extracts for blocking communication between bacteria, which slows their growth. Good old Guinness was the beer they used in testing — another reason to channel your inner Irishman at the bar.

It may reduce inflammation

Next time your spouse asks why you’re still at the bar, tell them you’re fighting inflammation.

Inflammation in the body is the underlying cause behind many diseases, and according to a study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, hops (an essential ingredient in beer) has anti-inflammatory properties. The researchers compared the anti-inflammatory effect of different hops and found that the consumption of hops in beer form interfered with inflammation causing compounds.

It may help you live longer

A study conducted by a psychologist at the University of Texas found that people who drink moderately live longer than those who don’t. But don’t use it as a license to binge drink this weekend because heavy alcohol use can negatively impact your health. The jury is still out, but studies suggest that a healthy amount of beer can add years to your life, given that it positively impacts cholesterol levels, lowers your risk of diabetes and strengthens your heart.

Regardless of the reason why, we’ll take it as a cue to crack open a cold one tonight.

WHAT A NUTRITIONIST WANTS YOU TO KNOW

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Beer: is it good or bad for your health?

This content was published in 2008. We do not recommend that you take any clinical decisions based on this information without first ensuring you have checked the latest guidance.

The history of beer goes back to its discovery in Mesopotamia around 4000BC. The drink has been an important dietary component for people of all ages, and has also been used historically for a range of medicinal purposes, including as a mouthwash, an enema and a vaginal douche, and to treat wounds.

In ancient times beer was neither carbonated nor flavoured with hops. The latter modification began in the eighth century AD. It has been claimed that beer is now the world’s most popular herbal remedy.

Beer is manufactured from malted barley and hops. The wort is obtained either by infusion or decoction, and fermentation is facilitated by either wild yeast or the addition of yeast. The hops content has long been accepted as having a preservative action.

Styles of beer available now include lagers, ales, wheat beers, stouts, fruit beers, porters and steam beers. Each involves a different brewing technique. 

The popularity and marketing hype of beer has extended beyond the boundary of drinking. Extracts of beer are now found in a wide variety of non-beverage consumer products, including cosmetics and shampoos, and foods such as cheese. And spas are now offering beer baths and beer massages.

Intensive advertising and sponsorship of beers at an international level has increased sales dramatically and stimulated consumption. Individuals who are excessive consumers of beer (and other alcoholic drinks) are often affected by adverse health issues, particularly if they also have a poor dietary intake coupled with lack of exercise. 

Excess consumption of alcoholic drinks is now considered to be both dangerous and antisocial, both for the consumer and for the wider population.

However, research suggests that moderate consumption may have positive health benefits. 

Constituents of beers

Alcohol

The alcohol content of beers ranges from 0.05 per cent in low alcohol (“alcohol-free”) beers to more than 10 per cent, particularly in some Belgian beers. The usual range is of the order of 3 to 6 per cent.

Nutrients

Beer is well known to contain a large number of nutritive components, including vitamins (particularly B vitamins) and minerals (particularly selenium and silicon). It also has a high potassium/sodium ratio (usually in the ratio of 4:1), and contains from 0.4 to 6.2 per cent of dietary fibre.

Calories

The ethanol content in beer contributes substantially to its calorie content, at the level of 7Kcal/g.

Twenty-five per cent of the starch in beer is partially degraded and present in a non-fermentable form, which adds further calories. These latter carbohydrates are largely absent from “diet” beers.

Herbs and spices

Hops, the female flower cones of Humulus lupulus, are used in the manufacture of beer to impart a bitter taste.

As with other bitter tasting drinks, beers are known to stimulate the appetite.

In addition to malted barley and hops, some specialist beers have added herbs and spices (see Table below).

These additives contribute to the overall flavour palate, but it is not known whether they contribute to any biological activity at the levels present.

Most of these additives are either traditional or modern gimmicks (eg, ginseng).

The constituents in the traditional recipes are mainly lower terpenoids, phenylpropanoids or fruit flavours, and these may act as mild carminatives.

Table: Herb and spice additives used in beers

Recent research on healthful effects

In published research on the overall health effects of beer it is difficult to separate the effects of the alcohol from those of the constituent phytochemicals, which are mainly phenolic compounds.

The effects of beer consumption in a number of disease states, including coronary heart disease and cancer, have been reported, along with a range of activities of individual phytochemicals.

About 30 per cent of the polyphenols of beer wort are derived from the hops. It has been discovered that hops contain 0.5mg/kg trans-resveratrol, and also a number of piceid (resveratrol glucoside) isomers. 

The beneficial activities of trans-resveratrol include antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, oestrogenic, cardioprotective, antitumour and antiviral properties. And trans-piceid (2mg/kg) is believed to limit the elevation of lipid concentration, and inhibit eicosanoid synthesis.

Xanthohumol

Xanthohumol is the major flavonoid found in hops, and human exposure is mainly through drinking beer. It has been demonstrated that xanthohumol may prevent colonic carcinogenesis, and also suppresses CYP1A2, which catalyses the metabolic activation of a number of procarcinogens and cyclo-oxygenase-2, the latter being a key enzyme involved in cancer progression.

It also induces detoxification enzymes to suppress carcinogenesis. Humulone from hops has also been found to suppress cyclo-oxygenase-2 and prevent angiogenesis associated with tumour progression.

Xanthohumol has been been demonstrated to have a range of activities against cancer initiation in in vitro studies, and 8-prenylnaringin, another flavonoid present in hops, is the most potent oestrogen receptor a agonist found in plants, having phytoestrogenic activity.

The latter constituent, therefore, could have a potential role in prevention or treatment of post-menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and osteoporosis, and is present in far greater levels in bitter beers than in lagers.

There has been some interest in the effects of beer consumption on osteoporosis. Femoral bone loss was inhibited in ovariectomised beer-fed rats but not in rats fed alcohol alone or hop-free beer. An active component was identified as isoxanthohumol, but 8-prenylnaringin was shown to have no effect.

Polyphenols

Much research has been sponsored by breweries in response to claims for the benefits of wine, and often this has been focused on polyphenol composition.

It is often reported that moderate consumption of alcoholic drinks affect indicators of atherosclerosis, such as improving lipid metabolism, increasing antioxidant activity, and improving coagulant status.

It is also believed that these changes decrease mortality and morbidity of coronary artery disease, and it is widely thought that these effects are due to the alcohol content alone. 

Research on the effects of lyophilised beer on lipid metabolism and antioxidant activity in the serum of rats has shown a reduction in total cholesterol and triglycerides and increased levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Volumes as small as 6ml were used.

The authors’ conclusion was that the phenolic portion of the lyophilised beer residue was responsible for the effects. 

The higher polyphenol content of some beverages is thought to be responsible for greater antioxidant activity. However, it has been found that although wines have a greater phenolic content than beer, it is beer that possesses the higher antioxidant activity. 

Analysis has shown that beer contains higher levels of proanthocyanidins, epicatechin and ferulic acid than wines, and that levels of quercitin, ?-coumaric and gallic acids were similar, suggesting that higher levels of epicatechin and ferulic acid are responsible for the observed effects. Ferulic acid has also been shown to be readily absorbed in the human body.

A recent clinical trial involved 42 hypercholesteraemic male non-drinkers who consumed 330ml of beer daily for 30 days. The results included significant improvement of plasma lipid levels, and an increase in plasma antioxidant and anticoagulant activities.

A population-based sample of 5,865 older adults from four communities in the US found that alcohol intake (assessed by number of drinks, whether beer, wine or spirits) was associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers in this patient group, which was free from cardiovascular disease.

Further investigation of the comparative effects of the alcohol or phenolic constituents has been carried out using commercial de-alcoholised beer.

Acute consumption of three litres of beer by healthy young adults showed inhibition of thrombogenic activity and, consequently, a beneficial effect which could help prevent the development of coronary artery disease.

A population study on the influence of beer consumption on folate and homocysteine concentrations revealed that moderate consumption causes increased folate levels, leading to normal levels of homocysteine in a population with limited folate intake. This suggests that beer may have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease in some populations.

Aluminium has been implicated as a causal factor contributing to Alzheimer’s disease, and it is understood that silicon can affect the bioavailability of aluminium.

Research in mice has shown that the presence of moderately high levels of silicon in beer has been able to reduce the uptake of aluminium in the digestive tract and, therefore, slow the accumulation in the body, including in brain tissue.

A large prospective study has been reported on the effects of moderate beer consumption. It concluded that beer is not associated with an increase in body mass index.

Detrimental effects of beer

Studies have been carried out to quantify the harmful effects of beer consumption. Most of the detrimental effects relate to high alcohol levels resulting from heavy consumption of beer. 

Acute alcohol-related incidents included pancreatitis, excess blood alcohol, poisoning and suicide. Chronic effects included malignant neoplasms, diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, pneumonia, influenza and chronic pancreatitis.

An ecological study carried out in Louisiana, US, found that populations in districts with high levels of beer consumption had higher premature mortality — with 24 per cent of deaths related to beer drinking. Beer consumption was independently associated with homicide, liver diseases and cardiovascular disease.

The risk of cancer in Danish brewery workers receiving 2.1 litres of free beer daily was investigated in 13,051 subjects. Reported outcomes were that there was a significantly increased risk of cancers, particularly in the buccal cavity, digestive organs, respiratory system and urinary system, and slight increase in colon and rectum cancers.

However, a study in eastern France found that moderate drinking of both beer and wine was associated with a lower mortality from all causes, and both drinks reduced the risk of cardiovascular death.

Conclusions

Beer is an enjoyable drink taken in moderate amounts, and may have positive effects on health. A traditional diet of beer and fresh foods may be better than the highly promoted soft drinks and convenience foods.

Beer Might Actually Be Good for You, According to Science

Beer is one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages. Thought to have first been developed thousands of years ago in the Levant, it is consumed by millions of people every day today.

But apart from its intoxicating properties, moderate drinking of beer can also benefit your health! If this sounds too good to be true, then read on. 

RELATED: THE SCIENCE BEHIND BREWING BEER

Is beer good for your health?

Beer not only tastes great, but it could have some very important health benefits.

Reasons why drinking beer is healthy for you. pic.twitter.com/3MPL8dv8K0

— The Health Videos (@TheHealthVid) January 22, 2020

in fact, moderate consumption of beer has been shown to seriously improve your health and wellbeing beyond its inebriating effects. 

“Huge studies have found a 25 percent lower risk of heart disease in people who drink from one-half to two drinks daily, compared to abstainers. And alcoholic beverages that are rich in polyphenols — think beer! — maybe especially good for the heart, according to a 2012 research review.” – everydayhealth.com. 

How many beers a day is healthy?

Excessive alcohol consumption will dramatically affect your health and wellbeing over the long run. But the odd drink now and again appears to be very beneficial to you. 

But how many beers a day would be considered “safe” or beneficial. Official guidance can vary, but the consensus appears to be about 1-2 pints a day, 3-4 times a week. 

But this is an average. It will depend on your sex, weight, and general health. 

“For example, The Daily Telegraph said, “drinking up to two 1.4 pints of beer a day for men and half of that for women” could benefit heart health. However, the researchers define a healthy limit as “up to” one drink a day for women and two for men. They say that one drink is approximately 330ml of 4% beer.” – nhs.uk. 

What happens if I drink beer every day?

The answer to this depends entirely on the volume of alcohol, and type, you consume every day. If you are binge drinking most days of the week, the chances are that your health will seriously suffer from the abuse.

On the other hand, drinking 1 or 2 beers a day, every other day could have some health benefits for you. Like anything in life, “everything in moderation” as the saying goes. 

“Drinking one alcoholic beverage per day or drinking alcohol on at least 3 to 4 days per week is a good rule of thumb for people who drink alcohol. But don’t drink more than two drinks per day. More than two drinks daily can increase the risk of over-all death as well as dying from heart disease.” – webmd.com. 

What are the health benefits of drinking beer?

So, without further ado, here are some of the health benefits of drinking beer according to science. Trust us when we say this list is far from exhaustive and is in no particular order.

1. It’s good for your bones (if you are a man)

One great health benefit of drinking beer is the fact that it can help build stronger bones. If drinking milk every day isn’t your thing, it might be time to replace it with a daily beer?

According to a review published in the International Journal of Endocrinology, moderate beer consumption has been shown to increase bone density in men. The reason for this is that beer contains a fair amount of silicon.

Your body uses silicon to help build and maintain bones. 

“Silicon improves bone matrix quality and facilitates bone mineralization. Increased intake of bioavailable silicon has been associated with increased bone mineral density. Silicon supplementation in animals and humans has been shown to increase bone mineral density and improve bone strength.” – hindawi.com. 

2. Beer can help you live longer

Source: cold snowstorm/iStock

Yet another health benefit of drinking beer is the fact that it might actually help you live longer. Apart from the numerous anecdotal stories of a grandparent who swears by beer as the key to a long life, there might be some scientific support for it.

One particular study conducted by a psychologist at the University of Texas discovered that people who drink beer responsibly tended to live longer than those who didn’t drink beer at all. But, the key here is moderate consumption, however.

Regularly drinking beer in excess will negatively affect your health over the longterm. While there are conflicting views on this, but various other studies do seem to show a tangible link between moderate beer drinking and longer lifespans.

This is probably a combination of the fact that beer reduces cholesterol levels, lowers the risk of diabetes (more on this later) and can also strengthen the heart (also more on this later).  

3. Beer can actually clean your teeth

Source: Vagengeym_Elena/iStock

Believe it or not, there is some evidence that drinking beer can help clean your teeth. According to a study published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology beer can help keep the bacteria in your mouth under control.

Beer, the study found, helps prevent bacteria from forming and growing on your teeth. It should be noted that their beer of choice was Guinness, which is actually a stout; but we are splitting hairs. 

The research team tested the effects of beer extracts on bacteria that promote tooth decay and gum disease. They found that even the weakest beer extract seriously hampered bacteria growth and proliferation by blocking communication pathways between them. 

4. Beer can help stave off Alzheimers and dementia

Source: MicroStockHub/iStock

Yet another health benefit of drinking beer is the fact that is has been shown to boost brainpower. The key component here is silicon again.

Silicon helps protect your brain from compounds that are believed to eventually cause a series of cognitive diseases. Researchers at the Loyola University in Chicago found that moderate beer drinkers showed a marked 23% reduction in the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia.

This was compared to non-drinkers. 

5. It’s good for your heart

Other than wine, beer appears to also have some health benefits for the “old ticker”. One preliminary study at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2016 discovered that moderate beer drinkers showed higher levels of “good” cholesterol. 

The study followed 80,000 participants over six years. It discovered that those who like the odd pint of beer showed the slowest decline in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels.

In turn, this means a lower risk of some cardiovascular diseases.

Other research has also shown that men who drink beer in moderation after having a heart attack were 42% less likely to die from heart disease. 

6. Beer is good for your kidneys

Another interesting benefit of drinking beer is that it can be good for your kidneys. Some studies have shown that moderate beer drinkers show a marked reduction in the build-up of kidney stones.

However, excessive alcohol consumption can have the opposite effect. 

“Research has shown that beer, white wine, and red wine may all help reduce a person’s risk for kidney stones when consumed at a moderate rate.” – americanaddictioncenters.org. 

7. It can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes

And finally, yet another great health benefit of drinking beer is its apparent ability to stave off type 2 diabetes. 

This comes from one study published in the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes. They found that people who drink 3 to 4 times per week were less likely to develop diabetes than those who never drink.

What’s more, when compared to those who didn’t drink beer at all, men who enjoyed between one and six beers per week had a 21% lower risk of diabetes.

Beer in Health and Disease Prevention

Dedication

Preface

Foreword by Professor Jonathon Powell

Part 1: General Aspects of Beer and Constituents

(i) Beer Making, Hops and Yeast

1. Overview of Manufacturing Beer: Ingredients, Processes and Quality Criteria

Sascha Wunderlich and Werner Back

2. NON Lager Beer

Andrea Pavsler and Stefano Buiatti

3. Lager Beer

Andrea Pavsler and Stefano Buiatti

4. Traditional and Modern Japanese Beers: Methods of Production and Composition

Masato Kawasaki and Shuso Sakuma

5. Sorghum Beer: Fabrication, Nutritional Value and Impact Upon Human Health

Maoura Nanadoum and Jacques Pourquie

6. Production of Alcohol-free Beer

Luigi Montanari, Ombretta Marconi, Heidi Mayer, and Paolo Fantozzi

7. Yeast Diversity in the Brewing Industry

Linda Hellborg and Jure Piskur

8. The Brewer’s Yeast Genome: From its Origins to our Current Knowledge

Sandra Rainieri

9. Flocculation in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae

Eduardo V. Soares

10. Use of Amylolytic Enzymes in Brewing

N.P. Guerra, A. Torrado-Agrasar, C. López-Macías, E. Martínez-Carballo, S. García-Falcón, J. Simal-Gándara, and L.M. Pastrana-Castro

(ii) Beer Drinking

11. Trends of Beer Drinking in Europe

Pedro Marques-Vidal

12. Trends in Beer Drinking: Rest of the World

Qiao Qiao Chen and Pedro Marques-Vidal

13. Beer Consumption Patterns in Northern Ireland

Adele Mc Kinney and Kieran Coyle

14. Beer Consumption in Teenagers in Brazzaville (Congo)

Jean Robert Mabiala Babela, Alphonse Massamba, Senga Prosper, and Rajaventhan Srirajaskanthan

15. Personality Characteristics Associated with Drinking and Beverage Preference

Colin R. Martin

16. Beer and Current Mood State

Ralf Demmel and Jennifer Nicolai

17. Female Beer Drinking and the Morning After

L. Darren Kruisselbrink and René J.L. Murphy

18. Beer Consumption During Pregnancy

Brittany B. Rayburn and William F. Rayburn

19. Beer and other Alcoholic Beverages: Implications for Dependence, Craving and Relapse

Thomas Hillemacher and Stefan Bleich

(iii) Beer Composition and Properties

20. Beer Composition: An Overview

Stefano Buiatti

21. Identification of Taste and Aroma-Active Components of Beer

Paul Hughes

22. Hop Essential Oil: Analysis, Chemical Composition and Odor Characteristics

Graham Eyres and Jean-Pierre Dufour*

23. Ethanol Content of Beer Sold in the US: Variation Over Time, Across States and by Individual Drinks

William C. Kerr

24. Soluble Proteins of Beer

Marion Didier and Bakan Bénédicte

25. Amino Acids in Beer

Marta Fontana and Stefano Buiatti

26. Purines in Beer

Tetsuya Yamamoto and Yuji Moriwaki

27. Beer Carbohydrates

Isabel M.P.L.V.O. Ferreira

28. Dietary Fiber in Beer: Content, Composition, Colonic Fermentability and
    Contribution to the Diet

I.Goñi, M.E. Díaz-Rubio, F. Saura-Calixto

29. Beer and Arabinoxylan

Glen P. Fox

30. Histamine in Beer

Susanne Diel, Maria Herwald, Hannelore Borck, and Friedhelm Diel

31. Terpenoids in Beer

J. Richard Dickinson

32. Proanthocyanidins in Hops

Hui-Jing Li and Max L. Deinzer

33. Metals in Beer

Pawel Pohl

34. Minerals in Beer

Luigi Montanari, Heidi Mayer, Ombretta Marconi, and Paolo Fantozzi

35. Silicon in Beer: Origin and Concentration

Caroline Walker, Gary Freeman, Ravin Jugdaohsingh, and Jonathan J. Powell

(iv) Beer Stability and Spoilage

36. The Chemistry of Ageing Beer

D.P. De Schutter, D. Saison, F. Delvaux, G. Derdelinckx, F.R. Delvaux

37. Trans-2-nonenal During Model Mashing

José da Cruz Francisco and Estera Szwajcer Dey

38. E-2-nonenal and Beta-damascenone in Beer

José Rodrigues and Paulo Almeida

39. Pathogens in Beer

Garry Menz, Peter Aldred, and Frank Vriesekoop

40. Fate of Pesticide Residues in Brewing

Simón Navarro and Nuria Vela

Part 2: General Effects on Metabolism and Body Systems

(i) General Metabolism and Organ Systems

41. Ethanol in Beer: Production, Absorption and Metabolism

Rajkumar Rajendram and Victor R. Preedy

42. What Contribution is Beer to the Intake of Antioxidants in Diet?

Fulgencio Saura-Calixto, José Serrano, and Jara Pérez-Jiménez

43. Antioxidant Activity of Beer’s Maillard Reaction Products: Features and Health Aspects

Franco Tubaro

44. Beer Affects Oxidative Stress Due to Ethanol: A Preclinical and Clinical Study

Giovanni Addolorato, Lorenzo Leggio, Anna Ferrulli, Giovanni Gasbarrini, Antonio Gasbarrini, and Alcohol Related Diseases Study Group

45. Antioxidant Capacity of Hops

C. Proestos and M. Komaitis

46. The Antioxidant Capacities of Beers: Relationship between Assays of Antioxidant Capacity, Colour and other Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Justin A. Fegredo, Rachel Meynell, Alan K.H. Lai, Max C.Y. Wong, Colin R. Martin, Helen Wiseman, Victor R. Preedy

47. Biological Properties of Beer and its Components Compared to Wine

Giuseppe Iacomino, Idolo Tedesco, and Gian Luigi Russo

48. The Absorption and Metabolism of Phenolic Acids from Beer in Man

Mirella Nardini, Fausta Natella, Andrea Ghiselli, and Cristina Scaccini

49. Caloric Compensation in Response to Beer Consumption

Neil E. Rowland

50. Beer and Adiposity

S. Goya Wannamethee

51. The Relationship between Exercise and Beer Ingestion in Regards to Metabolism

Tetsuya Yamamoto and Yuji Moriwaki

52. Estrogenicity of Beer: The Role of Intestinal Bacteria in the Activation of Beer Flavonoid

Sam Possemiers, Willy Verstraete, and Tom Van de Wiele

53. Effects of Beer Ingestion on Body Purine Bases

Yuji Moriwaki and Tetsuya Yamamoto

54. Neuropharmaological Activity of Humulus Lupulus L

Paola Zanoli and Manuela Zavatti

55. Beer: Effects on Saliva Secretion and Composition

H.S. Brand, M.L. Bruins, E.C.I. Veerman, and A.V. Nieuw Amerongen

56. Beer and Coeliac Disease

Glen P. Fox

57. The Effect of Beer and other Alcoholic Beverages on the Esophagus with Special Reference to Gastroesophageal Reflux

H. Seidl and C. Pehl

58. Effects of Beer on the Gastric Mucosa as Determined by Endoscopy

Andreas Franke and Manfred V. Singer

59. The Effect of Beer and its Non-alcoholic Ingredients on Secretory and Motoric Function of the Stomach

Andreas Franke and Manfred V. Singer

60. The Effect of Beer and its Non-alcoholic Constituents on the Exocrine and Endocrine Pancreas as well as on Gastrointestinal Hormones

Peter Feick, Andreas Gerloff, and Manfred V. Singer

61. Beer and the Liver

Rajaventhan SriRajaskanthan and Victor R. Preedy

(ii) Cardiovascular and Cancer

62. Beer Consumption and Homocysteine

D.A. De Luis and R. Aller

63. Alcohol, Beer and Ischemic Stroke

Kenneth Mukamal

64. Beer: Is it Alcohol, Antioxidants, or both? Animal Models of Atherosclerosis

Joe A. Vinson

65. Beer Inhibition of Heterocyclic Amines-induced Carcinogenesis

Hajime Nozawa and Keiji Kondo

66. Maize Beer and Carcinogenesis

Zodwa Dlamini, Zukile Mbita, and Lindiwe Skhosana

67. The Relationship between Beer Consumption and Lung Cancer

Douglas E. Paull and Alex G. Little

68. Phenolic Beer Compounds to Prevent Cancer

Clarissa Gerhäuser

69. Beer Inhibition of Azoxymethane-induced Colonic Carcinogenesis

Hajime Nozawa and Keiji Kondo

Part 3: Specific Effects of Selective Beer Related Components

(i) General Metabolism and Organ Systems

70. Biological Activities of Humulone

Hiroyasu Tobe

71. Desmethylxanthohumol from Hops, Chemistry and Biological Effects

Reinhard A. Diller, Herbert M. Riepl, Oliver Rose, Corazon Frias, Günter Henze, and Aram Prokop

72. Reproductive and Estrogenic Effects of 8-prenylnaringenin in Hops

Stuart R. Milligan

73. Regulation of Gene Expression by Hop-derived 8-prenylnaringenin

Oliver Zierau and Günter Vollmer

74. Hop-derived Phytoestrogens Alter Osteoblastic Phenotype and Gene Expression

Katharina E. Effenberger and Johannes Westendorf

75. Antimalarials from Prenylated Chalcone Derivatives of Hops

Sonja Frölich, Carola Schubert, and Kristina Jenett-Siems

76. Acylphloroglucinol Derivatives from Hops as Anti-inflammatory Agents

Hans Becker, Clarissa Gerhäuser, and Gregor Bohr

77. Hops derived Inhibitors of Nitric Oxide

Hajime Nozawa, Feng Zhao, and Keiji Kondo

78. Non-specific Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging Properties of Melanoidins from Beer

Francisco J. Morales

79. Anti-obesity Effects of Dietary Isomerized Hop Extract Containing Isohumulones Generated via Peroxisome Proliferators-activated Receptors

Hiroaki Yajima

80. Moderate Beer Consumption: Effects on Silcon Intake and Bone Health

Ravin Jugdaohsingh and Jonathan J. Powell

81. Biolabelling of Xanthohumol in Hop Cones (Humulus Lupulus L., Cannabaceae) with Stable and Radioactive Precursors for Biosynthetic and Metabolic Studies

Hans Becker, Stefanie Berwanger, and Norbert Frank

(ii) Cardiovascular and Cancer

82. Epicatechin and its Role in Protection of LDL and of Vascular Endothelium

Tankred Schewe and Helmut Sies

83. Isohumulones from Beer Modulate Blood Lipid Status

Aruto Yoshida

84. Flavonoids in Beer and their Potential Benefit on the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Chung-Yen Chen and Jeffrey B. Blumberg

85. Vasoactivity of Flavonols, Flavones and Catechins

Owen L. Woodman

86. The Anti-invasive and Proapoptotic Effect of Xanthohumol: Potential use in Cancer

Barbara Vanhoecke, Jerina Boelens, Sofie Lust, Fritz Offner, and Marc Bracke

87. Anti-cancer Property of Epicatechin Gallate in Colon Cancer Cells

Seung Joon Baek and Seong-Ho Lee

88. Use of Quercetin in Prostate Cancer Cells

Charles Y.F. Young

89. Beer and Prevention of Heterocyclic Amine-induced DNA Adducts and O6-methlyguanine

Sakae Arimoto-Kobayashi

90. Techniques for Assessing Anti-cancer Effects of Beer

Clarissa Gerhäuser

Part 4: Assay Methods and Techniques Used for Investigating Beer and Related Compounds

91. The Evaluation of Beer Ageing

María Purificación Hernández-Artiga and Dolores Bellido Milla

92. Use of Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry to Fingerprint Beer

Rodrigo R. Catharino, Alexandra C.H.F. Sawaya, and Marcos N. Eberlin

93. Methods for the Characterization of Beer by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)

A.M. Gil and J. Rodrigues

94. Methods for the Vibrational Spectroscopy Analysis of Beer

Salvador Garrigues and Miguel de la Guardia

95. Fluorecence Methods for the Analysis of Beer

Ewa Sikorska, Igor Khmelinskii, and Marek Sikorski

96. Capillary Electrophoresis Methods used for Beer Analysis

Antonio Segura-Carretero, Sonia Cortacero-Ramírez, and Alberto Fernández-Gutiérrez

97. Manual and Robotic Methods for Measuring the Total Antioxidant Capacity of Beers

Justin A. Fegredo, Max C.Y. Wong, Helen Wiseman, and Victor R. Preedy

98. Methods for the HPLC Analysis of Phenolic Compounds and Flavonoids of Beer

Pavel Jandera

99. Methods for the Assay of Iso-alpha-acids and Reduced iso-alpha-acids in Beer

Gerd Vanhoenacker and Pat Sandra

100. Methods for Determining Biogenic Amines in Beer

Anastasia Zotou and Zacharenia Loukou

101. Beer and ESR Spin Trapping

Kevin Huvaere and Mogens L. Anderson

102. Method for Determining Ethanol in Beer

Domenica Tonelli

103. Quantification of Beer Carbohydrates by HPLC

Isabel M.P.L.V.O. Ferreira

*deceased

10 Potential Health Benefits Of Beer

Beer is the third most popular drink preceded by tea and water and according to some, one of the oldest recorded recipe in the world. Drinking beer in moderation can confer certain health benefits and they are a surprising list. Beer, in moderation, may benefit heart health, improve blood sugar control, and potentially lower the risk of dementia. It also acts as a stress buster and a diuretic.

What is Beer?

Beer is an alcoholic drink that is prepared using barley, hops, water, and yeast. It is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages, which is enjoyed by people all over the world. There are many varieties of beer and some of them include pale ale, stout, mild ale, wheat, lambic, and lager beer.

The cereal grains present in this alcoholic beverage are responsible for the nutritional value of beer. People usually prefer to drink it with certain meals.

Nutrition Facts: Calories & Carbs

A standard serving of a can or a bottle of beer (12 fluid oz/360g) contains 155 calories and 12.8 grams of carbohydrates. There are light beers available for the calorie-conscious. A can of light beer, according to the USDA, has 104 calories and 5.9 grams of carbs. ^{[2] [3] [4]}

While red wine is often considered the “healthy” option due to the presence of antioxidants, a Harvard report says beer contains similar phenolic compounds as wine. However, they are in small amounts in beer, including quercetin, epicatechins, and gallic acid. A majority (70-80%) of the polyphenols come from barley malt and the rest from hops, the flowers of the hop plant. Beer also has a larger protein amount than wine. ^{[5] [6] [7]}

Alcohol Content (ABV)

The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines a standard serving of beer as 12 ounces and 5% ABV. However, the alcohol content for beer can range between 2.5 to 25% ABV. Furthermore, light beers usually contain almost as much alcohol as regular beer – about 4.2% ABV. It is best to check the alcohol content on the bottles before drinking. ^{[8] [9]}

The average alcohol content of craft beer is 5.9% ABV, stronger than regular beer. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Health Benefits

Health benefits of beer become prominent if it is consumed in moderate amounts. Some of them include the following:

Anticancer Potential

While an excessive amount of alcohol is never good for anyone, some components that make a beer could have some anticancer potential. A study published in the European Journal of Cancer found that prenylflavonoids such as xanthohumol and isoxanthohumol in beer, derived from hops, could have chemopreventive properties. An animal study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that beer intake could contribute to a reduced risk of cancer susceptibility. ^{[10] [11]}

A 2019 research study by a team at the Oregon State University also found that dihydro-xanthohumol or DXN, and tetrahydro-xanthohumol or TXN, beer derivatives from hops, could also thwart liver and colon carcinomas. ^[12]

Protects Heart

Beer contains vitamin B6, which protects against heart diseases by preventing the build-up of a compound called homocysteine. It has a thinning effect on the blood and prevents the formation of clots, which cause blockages in the coronary arteries. According to a study conducted by ICTAN Spain, moderate consumption by healthy Spanish adults during 1 month was linked with positive blood lipid profile changes. Moderate consumption also reduces the risk of inflammation, the root cause of atherosclerosis, which is cholesterol and plaque building upon the blood vessels, and artery walls. ^{[13] [14]}

Controls Diabetes

Studies have linked moderate beer consumption to a lower prevalence of type 2 diabetes. According to a study carried out by the Harvard School of Public Health, moderate intake of beer can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in middle-aged men. It was found effective for occasional drinkers who kept their consumption at one or two servings of beer, wine, or liquor in a day. ^[15]

Prevents Anemia

Beer contains iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, deficiency of which may lead to anemia. A study conducted at the University of Valladolid, Spain, has found that iron content in dark beer is more than compared to pale or non-alcoholic beer. Another study published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research journal found that low-level alcohol consumption could increase levels of ferritin in the body, which in turn could lead to increased iron stores. ^{[16] [17]}

Delays Aging

Beer increases the potency and impact of vitamin E, which is a major antioxidant in the body. It is an important part of the maintenance of healthy skin, while also slowing down the aging process.

Prevents Kidney Stones

While intake of water is the best way to deal with kidney stones and prevent them, moderate consumption of beer might also help with kidney stone prevention, says a study published in the Medicine journal. ^[18]

Aids Digestion

Alcohol in beer can lead to diarrhea in some. In others, however, beer could help the digestive system function more efficiently. This could help with constipation. ^[19]

Stress Buster

Like other alcoholic drinks, beer is shown to reduce stress and facilitate sleep.

Diuretic Quality

Beer acts as a diuretic and significantly increases urination. This facilitates the increased removal of toxins and waste materials from the body.

Cleanses Gastrointestinal Tract

Beer is a good source of soluble fibers that promote general health. This includes being good for the heart, as well as helping to clean out the digestive tracts.

Limited consumption also ensures that the calorie intake from it does not affect the health adversely. ^[20]

Risks & Side Effects

Drinking in excessive amounts (addiction) is dangerous to health and can negate any and all beneficial effects. Some short-term side effects on excessive beer consumption include: ^[21]

• Slurred speech
• Vision impairment
• Lack of coordination
• Mood swings
• Memory lapses

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who should not drink alcohol include women who are pregnant, individuals younger than 21 years of age, and people who are recovering from alcoholism or cannot control the amount they drink. Also, it should be avoided by people who are planning to drive or any other activity that required focus and skill. However, different countries have different rules on alcohol purchase and consumption. ^[22]

Beer FAQs

How to make it?

One can make it at home using a brewing kit and supplies that are easily available in the local market or online. Boil malt extract and hops followed by sterilizing this mixture. Cool the mixture, add yeast, and let the fermentation begin. Store and monitor the fermentation and when the beer has aged properly, store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it with family and friends

How to brew?

Beer can be brewed easily at home by following some simple steps: Boil pale malt extract and hops for about an hour and sterilize the mixture. The hot mixture, also known as the wort is then cooled down and transferred to a fermenter where water is added to it. Yeast is added to start the fermentation process at room temperature. Once it is fully fermented it is bottled and set to age for 2-6 weeks before use.

What is Beer made of?

It is made using 4 ingredients – barley, hops, water, and yeast. These ingredients are easily available in grocery or online stores. It can also be made using wheat and rice instead of barley. It can be made at home using the above ingredients and a brewing kit which comprises containers, fermenters, etc.

When was it invented?

Brewing and drinking of beer date back to 5000 BC. It has been recorded in the ancient history of Mesopotamia. Before the industrial revolution, it was brewed at a domestic level. But post that, it was produced using industrial setups. In present times, there are many companies that produce and sell various varieties.

A-Craft Beer-a-Day or the Health Benefits of Craft Beer

There is a lot of hype about the amazing health benefits of craft beer. When it comes to health, I tend to be a tinsy bit obsessive – what is the source of the information, what is the source’s agenda, how did the source get the information…So I devoted several days to research and read as much as possible on what science has to say about that craft beer-a-day.

My Findings on The Health Benefits of Craft Beer

Evidently, craft brews can contribute to optimal health. At the same time, many of the health benefits that are so loudly touted have not been extensively researched or evaluated in conjunction with factors that could potentially counter them.

A quick example. Craft beer, being an alcoholic drink and containing ethanol can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Thanks to a number of widely publicized studies most people are aware of this¹,². 

At the same time however, craft beer is a very high glycemic beverage, despite its relatively low carbohydrate content. This means that it causes a rapid rise in blood sugar levels (not a good thing) because it is absorbed into the bloodstream very fast¹. Furthermore, craft beer is made with grains and yeast – enter gluten allergies or sensitivities and yeast intolerances.

What is a person to conclude?

My current personal stance is that no firm conclusions can be drawn. While craft beer has been found to provide indisputable health benefits, it is important to balance its enjoyment with a healthy diet and a steady exercise routine. This seems to be exactly what most craft beer fans are already doing – read on for the results from a poll on this topic!

Additionally, speaking from personal experience, people suffering from intestinal candida overgrowth should stay away from beer until such a time that they have cleared their body from the candida overgrowth and achieved a diverse microbiome.

There is also a catch – any health benefits of craft beer are contingent on moderate consumption.

I also noticed that most of the research concerning craft beer’s contribution to better health seems to have been conducted based on beer as a broader category with little differentiation between industrially brewed beer and smaller batch craft beers. Scientific research specifically focusing on craft beer is still nascent.

Why is moderate consumption important?

Drinking heavily is never a good idea no matter what the alcoholic beverage. When it comes to craft beer the health benefits accrue assuming moderate and regular consumption – neither several pints per day, nor the occasional craft beer now and then.

Consider the famous U-shaped and J-shaped curves illustrating the relationship between daily alcohol consumption and expected mortality. Those who maintained low to moderate alcohol intake during their lifetime had the lowest relative risk of total mortality, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes among other ailments¹,²,³. 

Source: Nature Reviews – Cardiology

But how much is low to moderate consumption? It is generally accepted that one 12-16 oz daily serving of craft beer constitutes moderate consumption for the average woman and one to two pints are about right for the average man¹. Note the use of the word average.

I want to emphasize that factors like body weight and physique and the intensity of a person’s exercise routine can make a difference. Two pints a day could be too much for a smaller, sedentary guy and perfectly fine for a taller woman who works out intensely.

Now I am wondering .. is this why T-shirts that say “I run because I really like beer” are so popular?

Why is it important to distinguish between industrially brewed beers and craft beer?

Mostly because the difference in the ingredients used under each brewing method accounts for a great deal of the resulting brew’s potential health benefits. Or lack thereof.

Industrial brewing is all about cheap alcohol production. The focus is on cost cutting (at the expense of dulling the beer) and increasing the profits. I recommend reading the piece on page 28 of the The World Atlas of Beer, 2016 edition by Webb/Beaumont.

The authors reference a special report sponsored by the European Union that described large brewers as ‘bankers who make beer’. Industrially brewed beer nowadays often consist of ‘mainly alcohol, sugar and bubbles’ according to the research of Webb and Beaumont.

In large scale brewing the amount of malted barley used is minimized and ‘augmented’ by cheaper alternatives like GMO corn, rice, or even worse – high fructose corn syrup. Hops are reduced to a minimum, while added are preservatives and MSG, caramel coloring (since color no longer comes from the malted barley) and artificial flavorings.

Craft beer on the other hand is all about the quality of the ingredients and the ethics of the brewing process.

It’s about using both to create flavor experiences that are rich and rewarding. Craft brews are so satisfying that you simply drink less. They are designed with flavor as the end goal.

Compare that to pounding several mass produced, flavor stripped beers and you will not only consume less calories overall going the craft beer route, but you will have no problem adhering to the ‘consume in moderation’ maxim.

Craft beer producers take pride in driving flavors by using natural main ingredients (malts, hops, yeast and water) and the brewing process itself. To me, craft brew masters are artists. They do not rush things and frequently use a variety of natural conditioning methods to further flavor the beer.

They also create exciting aromas and flavors by playing with a variety of hops and yeast strains and by adding assorted ingredients such as fruit, chocolate, basil…  

When compared with mass produced corporate beers craft brews contain a lot more of the key ingredients that are supposed to be in beer. These ingredients contain the very compounds that are the source of beer’s health benefits.

Health Benefits of Craft Beer

Science links craft beer to these health benefits:

Health Benefits of Craft Beer

Over the centuries the consumption of beer has not only lead to numerous health benefits – it can also be credited with saving lives. In the Middle Ages those who drank beer survived because harmful bacteria contaminating the drinking water were killed during the boiling stage of brewing. Those who drank water didn’t. I am quite confident that we all have wise beer drinkers somewhere in our family trees.

Craft beer is rich in vitamins and nutrients

Beer contains magnesium, potassium, selenium, biotin, chromium and phosphorus. It also has a lot of B vitamins (folic acid, niacin, riboflavin, B6 and B12)¹,²,³.  

Almost like taking a multivitamin! Joking aside, due to its nutritional content beer could help with the body’s metabolism, the functioning of the nervous system, muscle contraction, blood cell formation, cardiovascular disease protection¹ and even boost intestinal function and immunity.

In fact, recent research has confirmed that beer contains prebiotics² – indigestible dietary fibers, essentially food for the good bacteria in your gut called probiotics. Prebiotics stimulate the health of probiotics in the intestinal tract.  

This Easy Yogurt Dip contains both probiotics and prebiotics essential for your health.

Scientists have confirmed that compounds found in beer have many disease preventative properties. (Kondo K., Beer and Health:Preventative effects of beer components on lifestyle related diseases. Biofactors 2004; 22:303-310)

Here are some of the better researched examples.

Craft beer has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory effects

Beer contains polyphenols which are powerful antioxidant phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits¹,². Both malt and hops are sources of beer polyphenol substances, however most of them (70%-80%) originate from the malt¹.

In industrial brewing, polyphenols are frequently filtered out as they can contribute to haze, which many consumers are conditioned to not appreciate in beer. In contrast, craft beer is rich in polyphenols as both more malts and more hops are used.

Craft beer has an anti-carcinogenic effect

Hops, which were originally added to beer to bitter the sweet taste of the fermented wort are also what stabilizes and preserves beer. Today they are credited with possessing cancer preventative properties. Hops contain xanthohumol, which has been found to suppress carcinogenesis (initiation of cancer) as well as to block cancer progression.

The best part is that human exposure to xanthohumol is primarily through beer consumption¹,²,³.

Another substance contained in hops, humulone, has been shown to inhibit tumor progression (by preventing the development of new blood vessels needed for tumor growth¹).

Craft beer contains a lot more hops than industrial lagers. A lot more! Nowadays, especially with IPAs being the most popular style in the USA, it is not uncommon for ten to up to thirty times the standard amount of hops to be added to IPA styles. Ever tasted a triple IPA that literally made your tongue numb?

Craft beer is a natural sleep and anti-anxiety aid

For a long time, before any scientific research had proven it, hops have been known to alleviate anxiety and insomnia. Today it has been shown that they have a central sedating effect that accounts for increased sleeping time¹.

Hops promote relaxation and healthful sleep by way of raising the levels of the neurotransmitter GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid). A resin from the female flower of the hop plant (Humulus lupulus L.) is what accounts for this relaxation inducing mechanism¹,².

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

Even non-alcoholic beers can help with winding down from stress and staying asleep, as shown by a study involving stressed university students¹.

Natural pharmacists alike have tapped into the relaxation promoting properties of hops by making hops pills meant to soothe the nervous system and promote deeper and longer sleep. 

Craft beer prevents and treats menopause symptoms

In addition to helping menopausal women achieve higher quality sleep, hops in beer can alleviate other unpleasant symptoms related to the condition. They release a substance called 8-prenylnaringenin. It is related to xanthohumol and is considered to be the most potent phytoestrogen known to date. The substance has performed so well in alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes that research is underway to determine if 8-prenylnaringenin can be used in pharmaceuticals to prevent and treat the unpleasant symptoms by balancing the estrogen levels in the female body¹.

Another symptom attributed to the hormonal imbalances of menopause is osteoporosis and hops have been shown to help with this too.  

Craft beer contributes to stronger bones

Osteoporosis entails the deterioration of bone tissue and mass and results in increased susceptibility to fractures. Osteoporosis is not limited only to women in their menopausal years as men are frequent sufferers as well. The bone structure of those affected becomes more porous as seen below.

Picture courtesy of WebMD

Moderate consumption of beer has been shown to improve bone density in two ways. The phytoestrogens discussed above are one of them¹,².

The silicon content in beer is another one. The malts in beer are the source of bioavailable silicon which the human body can absorb much faster than silicon coming from a food source such as a banana for example. Silicon is essential for bone structure as it contributes to bone density¹.

Beers that are rich in barley malts and hops contain more silicon than these that do not. Hops contain more silica than what is provided via the husks of barley malts, but the use of hops comparative to the use of malts is smaller in brewing, so both ingredients are necessary to reach a higher average silicon content¹.

Craft beer aids digestion, strengthens the gut micro flora … and can even help maintain a thinner waist line

Beer consumption has been shown to stimulate gastric acid production in the stomach, which is associated with better digestion of the food and control over harmful gut bacteria. There are different organic acids in beer responsible for this effect, but the most important role was attributed to the bitter alpha, beta and iso-alpha acids derived from hops¹.

Additionally, certain beers can improve the gut flora by bringing in more beneficial microorganisms. These are known as spontaneously fermented beers.

They originated in the Senne river valley, near Brussels, Belgium. The ones made there, near the town of Lembeek are called lambics.

The wort is poured into shallow cooling vessels called coolships and left to cool off overnight, completely exposed to the local microbial flora. Wild yeasts and bacteria inoculate the wort and shortly after it is transferred into oak barrels where the microorganisms begin a spontaneous fermentation.

True lambics are almost exclusively made in Belgium and science is still uncovering their mysteries¹. They take a long time (1 to 3 years) to ferment and the end result is a large diversity of gut beneficial microorganisms¹,².

Lambics are different from sour beers in that there is no control over the fermentation. With sours, even though wild yeasts and micro flora are used, they are carefully chosen by the brewer and added in a controlled manner. Sour beers are the style mainly brewed in the USA, even though some breweries do follow the precise method of making lambics and rely on brew house resident bacteria¹. The Libertine Brewing Co. Aubree is one such example. 

Either way, spontaneously fermented styles/wild culture sour beers contain a lot of beneficial microorganisms. They are similar to Kombucha and kefir in the sense that they contain a symbiotic micro flora that can bring bacterial diversity to the human microbiome.

Tim Spector, a professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London and a prolific researcher found that consuming Belgian lambics does not only have a very positive effect on gut health, but can even help with maintaining a slim figure. His book The Diet Myth explains the benefits of sours and dispels the myth that consuming less calories alone, or avoiding grains, or dairy leads to controlling weight.

Craft beer can be a part of a healthy lifestyle

In addition to the fact that moderate craft beer intake can offer specific health benefits, its aficionados typically lead overall healthy lifestyles. Remember that poll I mentioned about the dietary and exercise choices of craft beer fans?

It found that when compared to average beer/wine/spirits drinkers the craft beer enthusiasts drink less and take time off alcohol on a weekly basis, exercise more, read nutritional labels more frequently and more often seek out local food. 

Craft beer may not be an optimal choice for everyone, but it can certainly be integrated into a healthy lifestyle. The health benefits of craft beer come on top of the enjoyment of amazing flavors.

90,000 Harm and benefits of beer – expert opinion of Roskachestvo

Mariyat Mukhina

expert of Roskachestvo, nutritionist, doctor of medical sciences

– Beer of high quality and produced in accordance with all the rules is somewhat useful, but on condition of moderate consumption. Doctors insist that an adult can drink no more than 300 grams of beer per day, no more than 2 times a week . Only in this case it can be said that beer accelerates metabolic processes in the body, which, in turn, should contribute to the rejuvenation of blood vessel cells.In addition, high-quality beer can inhibit the growth and reproduction of many pathogenic bacteria, have an analgesic and calming effect on the body. But you should not flatter yourself, everything has a downside.

What exactly is the use of beer?

• Medical scientists from the Japanese National Institute of Radiology have long found xanthohumol , a flavonoid that suppresses carcinogens, in hops . From which the Japanese concluded that beer to some extent protects a person from cancer.The same xanthohumol protects the brain from age-related degenerative changes.
• No other drink is capable of removing aluminum compounds from the body so quickly. We can say that the use of beer is indicated for poisoning with this substance.
• According to research by American scientists, citizens who drink beer in moderation are 41% less likely to suffer from kidney stones.
• In terms of the content of phosphorus, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium and zinc, beer does not differ from orange juice.As for vitamins, the foamy drink contains a lot of B1 and B2, and in a form that is easy to digest. To provide 50% of the daily value of these vitamins, you need to drink a liter of beer. The same amount will replenish the vitamin C supply by 70%. This is where the difficulties begin. The norm is no more than 300 grams, and not every day. And in this case, not so many vitamins are obtained.
• Three hundred grams of beer allows you to replenish your daily supply of only nicotine
  and folic acid.

The problem is that, being a diuretic drink, beer will simultaneously flush out a huge amount of trace elements from the body, creating their deficiency.

With other substances, too, not everything is clear. The silicon content in barley and hops, it would seem, helps to maintain bone density, elasticity of joints, and has a positive effect on the state of brain structures. But we do not chew hop cones and barley grains raw, but use them after fermentation.On the contrary, under the influence of alcohol the joints and the brain are destroyed.

Fusel oils, aldehydes, ethers and methanol affect the brain. Legs become “wadded”, and consciousness is confused. With the regular intake of such “feeding” into the brain, anxiety, level of aggression, irascibility, laziness, deceit increase, and thought processes slow down. Beer abuse increases the risk of getting senile dementia much earlier than retirement age.

Cobalt in the composition of beer leads to heart failure, and at any age.

Roskachestvo examined 40 brands of light beer, the beer rating is HERE .

Special project of Roskachestvo for research of beer drinks – HERE .

Do you get fat from beer?

Here again, it all depends on the amount drunk. Within the normal range, light beer perfectly activates the digestive system. It becomes a breeding ground for beneficial intestinal bacteria and stimulates the secretion of gastric juice.This, in turn, aids in the digestion of food and better absorption of nutrients.

In terms of calories, even dark beer has fewer of them than skim milk or any carbonated drink. Beer promotes weight gain and swelling thanks to a salty snack – dried fish, crackers, chips, salted nuts and snacks. In addition, carbon dioxide and yeast expand the stomach, while alcohol irritates the receptors in the digestive tract and blocks saturation centers. That is why, after beer, you are so hungry.

Beer is not vodka for you! Or not?

Beer lovers often say that it is harmless due to its low alcohol content. The statement is deceiving.

1. Firstly, some varieties, especially canned beer, now reach a strength of up to 15 degrees, which is comparable to wine.
2. Secondly, beer is usually drunk in bottles or large mugs. A half-liter mug of beer contains the same amount of ethyl alcohol as 50 grams of vodka.It turns out that a two-liter bottle of beer is equivalent in strength to a glass of vodka.

Main hazard: beer alcoholism

Unfortunately, few beer lovers believe in beer alcoholism. True, a rare alcoholic honestly admits his illness, even to himself. It seems to him that at any moment it will not be a problem to give up addiction. In fact, the myth that beer drinkers consume little alcohol plays a cruel joke on them. A couple of bottles every night weakens control so much that it gradually turns into a half-box.This is how addiction appears when the body requires regularity and an increase in dose.

Pathologists know the dangers of beer alcoholism best of all. They mark a greatly enlarged and modified heart, liver and kidneys.

The main disorders in the work of the heart and blood vessels in beer alcoholism:

• noticeable increase in the heart muscle and vascular walls;
• increased blood pressure;
• arrhythmia, shortness of breath, coronary artery disease, tachycardia, heart attacks and strokes.

Brain disorders in beer alcoholism:

• gradual death of brain cells;
• impairment of attention and memory;
• impaired coordination of movements:
• decrease in the level of intelligence, dementia.

Problems with internal organs in beer alcoholism:

• heartburn, gastritis, stomach ulcer;
• flatulence;
• hepatitis, liver cirrhosis.

Even a banal increase in pressure is often the result of an addiction to beer. This is how the kidneys report congestion. And the World Health Organization accuses beer of malfunctioning of the colon and the formation of a malignant tumor in it.

Signs of beer alcoholism

Doctors call the main symptom of the onset of beer alcoholism the inability to relax or get together with friends without beer. And a clear indicator of the second stage, when one cannot do without the help of a narcologist, is the daily consumption of beer in any doses, no matter how microscopic they may seem.

When trying to reduce the volume or completely abandon beer, the beer alcoholic notices the characteristic signs of a hangover syndrome: trembling hands, dry mouth, headache, weakness and sweating. If a couple of sips of beer relieves the condition, then it’s time to rush to the doctors. And don’t fool yourself by claiming that the beer is delicious. The fact that a person has ceased to notice his sharp taste and a clear smell of alcohol also indicates that it is time to see a narcologist.

From man to woman and vice versa

Hops contain large amounts of phytohormones.Entering the body with beer, they suppress the production of testosterone – the male sex hormone, and also stimulate the appearance of estrogens – the female sex hormones.

The increased production of estrogens forms a male figure according to the female type, that is, the man’s belly grows, the mammary glands grow, the muscles become flabby, and the fat rolls become voluminous. And all right, only external changes would take place – women have long been accustomed to the presence of a “beer belly” in husbands. At the same time, the processes of natural aging are accelerated, the number of spermatozoa decreases, libido decreases, pathological changes occur in the testicles and spermatic cords, problems with erection begin, as a result, prostatitis and impotence develop.

Beer belly is not the norm, regardless of age and physical activity.

Such a structure of a male figure indicates problems in the hormonal sphere! According to many years of observations of cardiologists, there are more and more young men with an increased amount of estrogen in the blood, who are dying from sudden cardiac arrest.

Oddly enough, in women, with a passion for beer, the reverse transformation of the body occurs – they become like men.The antennae appear, the voice becomes lower and harsh, and the figure is angular, capillaries burst on the face, the skin takes on an earthy tint and a rumpled appearance. In large quantities, beer affects the menstrual cycle, which leads to problems with conceiving and bearing a child, as a result, to an early menopause. In addition, women are susceptible to beer alcoholism much more often than men. And the possibility of the appearance of breast cancer with beer alcoholism almost doubles.

Beer Dishes: Operation Neutralize!

For those who want to experience the taste of beer, while avoiding alcohol consumption, various sauces and marinades on beer are suitable.First, the alcohol evaporates during heat treatment. Secondly, the volume of beer for the sauce needs a small amount – accordingly, the negative impact on the body of its components is minimal.

Non-alcoholic means harmless?

The inscription “0% alcohol” is not entirely true. There is still a small percentage of alcohol in non-alcoholic beer, it can go up to 1.5%. Accordingly, the regular use of this drink leads to the same unpleasant consequences as an addiction to alcoholic beer.True, perhaps in smaller volumes.

For foaming, more cobalt is added to non-alcoholic beer compared to regular beer, and its negative effect on the cardiovascular system is undoubtedly.

Who shouldn’t drink beer at all

1. Beer is strictly forbidden to children 90,018, including adolescents. It knocks down hormonal balance, interferes with the development of the brain and internal organs.
2. Pregnant women also cannot drink beer, even a little, even non-alcoholic.It negatively affects the formation of the fetus and its bearing. Even if outwardly the baby was born healthy, the mother’s addiction to beer during pregnancy will affect the baby’s quick wits and behavior.
3. It is worth completely abandoning alcohol and those 90,018 couples who are planning to conceive in the near future . Even one bottle of beer can subsequently affect the child’s physical or mental development.
4. The same can be said about feeding the baby “beer milk” .The myth that to increase lactation you need to sip beer, leads to disorders in the child’s body, as well as accustoming the child to alcohol from the cradle. This will certainly affect its further development.

Read about the quality of beer and other alcoholic beverages in the ratings of alcoholic beverages .

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Why is beer useful and what does it have in common with marijuana?

Since ancient times, it was believed that beer improves appetite, promotes physical development, strengthens health and immunity, little by little it was given even to children. Doctors have often used this drink to treat kidney and bladder diseases, fought exhaustion, insomnia, bronchial asthma and skin problems.

On the first Friday of August, an annual unofficial holiday is celebrated – International Beer Day, founded by the owner of the bar Jess Avshalomov.

For the first time the holiday took place in 2007 in the USA, since then the holiday has been celebrated in more than 200 cities of 50 countries of the world. On this day, it is customary to gather with friends and enjoy the taste of beer.

Sputnik spoke with a nutritionist and phytotherapist Marina Terteriani, who spoke about the beneficial and harmful properties of beer.

First of all, the expert advises not to forget about the sense of proportion and drink no more than two glasses. If you follow the rules of drinking beer, the drink can be beneficial, and if you abuse it, you can get seriously ill.

Beer contains a lot of potassium, folic acid, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, which are necessary for the human body. The drink is also rich in vitamins B1 and B2, in beer they are present in a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Beer is also rich in ascorbic acid, which fills the body with vitamin C.

“We quite often prescribe beer to patients with kidney stones, but only in small sizes. Beer dissolves them in the kidneys. Only this cannot be done on our own, without the advice of a specialist.With large stones complications can arise, “Terteriani said.

According to the doctor, phenolic compounds in beer prevent blood clots.

“It has been scientifically proven that people who drink beer suffer less from ischemic diseases than those who do not drink it, but here you need to remember about a sense of proportion,” said Terteriani, adding that beer also stimulates gastric secretion and has sedative and hypnotic effect.

Beer is also useful for hair growth and health.It is usually used as a conditioner, that is, to rinse the hair with it after washing, as a result of which it becomes soft and shiny.

Despite the numerous positive properties of beer, lovers of this drink should be aware that during its use, a great deal of stress goes on the venous system. For passionate beer lovers, it works in an enhanced mode, which can lead to the so-called “nylon stocking” syndrome. According to Terteriani, the heart can hardly cope with the overexertion, which is why other organs begin to suffer.

“Excessive consumption of not only beer, but even strawberries or honey can lead to serious health problems. When beer is abused, a substance is released in the male body that suppresses the male sex hormone testosterone. Female hormones also enter the body from beer. why men can get fat “, – said Terteriani.

Women who abuse beer may develop breast cancer.

Interesting facts about beer

The ancient Babylonians took brewing so seriously that if anyone brewed a bad batch, they drowned it in it as punishment.

The study of beer and its production has an official scientific name – zitology. It comes from the Greek words “Zythos” (beer) and “logos” (study).

In 1814, nearly 1,514 cubic meters of beer flooded several streets in London after a huge vat exploded in the parish of Saint Gilles.

The Vikings believed that in their paradise called Valhalla, there is a giant goat, whose udder has an unlimited amount of beer.
Cenosillicaphobia is the fear of an empty beer glass.

The first professional brewers were exclusively female, called Brewsters. Women had to be very beautiful to become Brewsters.

In Amsterdam, alcoholics are paid with beer. For cleaning city streets, local alcoholics receive 10 euros, half a pack of rolling tobacco and five cans of beer as payment from a government-funded organization.

In the USA, beer advertisements are not allowed to show people drinking this beverage.

The most expensive beer in the world is the Belgian beer “Vielle Bon Secours”.One bottle costs about $ 1,000.

The largest beer festival in the world is Oktoberfest. It is held annually in Munich, Germany. This 16-day fair runs from late September until the first weekend in October. More than 6 million people from all over the world take part in this event every year.

Beer and marijuana have more in common than you might think. Beer hops are in the same flowering plant family as marijuana.

Scientific research has proven that during the cholera epidemic, beer was the main preventive measure.The experiments of the microbiologist Robert Koch have proved that when processed with beer, cholera vibrios die.

History

According to a legend dating back to 4000 BC, a Sumerian chef forgot bread dough in the sun. He was surprised when he found traces of yeast fermentation on the dough – this became the basis of the origin of beer.

Another legend tells of a sick man who could not chew and swallow bread normally, he had to soak it in water.One day, he forgot the bread in a jug. After some time, a “intoxicating porridge” was formed from the bread, and when the man ate it, he felt strange sensations. After recovering, he tried to repeat this process. Thus, the Sumerians became brewers. Beer is one of the most ancient drinks in the world. Scientists attribute the origin of beer to the period of the beginning of the cultivation of crops (about 9500 BC).

For a long time, beer was considered the drink of the poor.

On the territory of modern Syria and Iran, archaeologists have discovered the oldest large-capacity clay vessels with a narrow neck, in which they could store grain.According to one of the versions of archaeologists, rainwater sometimes got into the vessels, and in a warm climate the grain germinated after which the fermentation process began.

90,000 5 reasons why you should drink beer

A glass of beer definitely won’t hurt
Photo: pixabay.com

Among the arguments in favor of moderate beer consumption there are some rather unexpected ones, but they are all supported by the authoritative opinion of scientists and doctors.

A glass or two of beer can not only make us happier, but also benefit our health. So next time, raising a mug with a foamy drink, you can make your favorite toast with a clear conscience: “Let’s be healthy!”

Five reasons to go to a beer bar with a clear conscience

• Healthy heart. Research has shown that beer is good for the heart. Drinking an average of two glasses a day can lower your risk of heart attack.Moreover, people who had a heart attack lived 20 years longer, if they drank beer regularly, than those who were in a string.

• Nutrients. Beer contains more protein and vitamin B than grape wine. The frothy drink contains antioxidants that protect against many diseases.

• Lower risk of diabetes. Beer reduces the risk of diabetes. A study in which more than 7 thousand people took part.person, concluded that people who drink about 14 glasses of beer a week are less likely to develop diabetes.

• Strong bones. In fact, beer has the same effect on the skeletal system as milk. This is because calcium is an essential ingredient for strengthening bones, and is found in green beans, beans, and … beer, among others!

• White smile. Dentists often talk about the importance of brushing your teeth, but never about the importance of beer for oral health. Although new research shows that beer has a positive effect on dental health. This foamy drink plays an important role in removing bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Earlier “Kubanskie Novosti” told about interesting facts about beer.

90,000 Beer – good or bad? Just 2 Mugs Will Protect Against Heart Attacks, But Ruin Sweat | Proper nutrition | Health

Rich history

Since ancient times, it has been believed that beer improves appetite, accelerates growth and physical development, and improves health.Therefore, once even small children were given to drink.

Doctors of medieval Europe widely used this drink to treat various diseases. It was prescribed for exhaustion, kidney and bladder diseases, for bronchial asthma and insomnia, for skin problems.

During the cholera epidemic, beer was the main preventive measure. And, oddly enough, its anticholeric properties were later confirmed by science. In the experiments of Robert Koch, a German microbiologist who discovered the causative agent of tuberculosis, cholera vibrios actually died when treated with beer.

Plus sign

Modern researchers also pay tribute to the strengths of this drink. Although they explain that today’s beer differs in composition, taste, color, and effect on our body from the product that was brewed and drunk by people of the Ancient World and the Middle Ages.

So, what can food and medical professionals say about today’s drink?

● Beer contains a lot of potassium and little sodium, so it can be drunk in moderation for those who suffer from hypertension and have to limit their salt intake.

● In terms of the content of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, beer does not differ from orange juice – a glass of which, drunk at breakfast, is a symbol of a healthy lifestyle.

● Beer contains a lot of vitamins B1 and B2, and they are present there in a form that is well absorbed. One liter of this drink will provide 40-60% of the daily requirement for thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2).

● Beer is rich in ascorbic acid, it is added to this drink to prevent oxidation processes.All the same liter will give you 70% of the daily dose of vitamin C. And to meet the daily need for nicotinic and folic acids, it is enough to drink only half a glass.

● Citric acid, which is part of beer, stimulates the formation of urine in the body and thus prevents the appearance of kidney stones.

● Phenolic compounds of beer are the most valuable components of this drink. They prevent the formation of blood clots, normalize lipid metabolism and, therefore, protect us from heart attacks and strokes.

● Carbon dioxide in beer stimulates gastric secretion and blood flow in muscles, liver, lungs and kidneys. In addition, he does not allow us to drink this drink in one gulp and thus keeps us from getting intoxicated quickly.

● Hop extractives have a sedative and hypnotic effect and have bactericidal properties.

With a minus sign

● And at the same time, beer puts a load on the venous channel, on the heart, which, for a passionate beer lover, is forced to work in an increased mode, with overstrain.As a result, it increases in size – the so-called “beer heart” develops.

Radiologists call this phenomenon the “nylon stocking” syndrome. The heart “sags”, becomes flabby, can hardly cope with its functions. And since everything is interconnected in the body, not only heart disorders develop, but other organs also begin to suffer.

● After a couple of beers in the male body, a substance is released that suppresses the production of the main male sex hormone – testosterone.As a result, female sex hormones are more actively produced. Plus, plant analogues of female hormones – phytoestrogens – enter the body from hops. If this lasts for many years, the man’s pelvis becomes wider, the mammary glands enlarge.

● Women are more likely to develop breast cancer a few years after the onset of beer abuse.

● There is a myth that beer increases lactation. It originated in those days when they drank homemade low-alcohol beer, not much different from kvass.But if a breastfeeding mother drinks modern factory beer, she can cause irreparable harm to the health of her baby.

● We, inexperienced consumers, consider beer to be a high-calorie drink. This is wrong. It is lower in calories than milk, soda, or fruit juice. Another thing is that beer stimulates appetite and makes us eat more than we need. Probably, due to this property in ancient times, beer was considered a “winter” drink, and thanks to it, beer lovers are usually overweight.

● The calming effect of beer has a downside: a person gets used to such a sedative and after a while without a bottle can no longer relax or rest.

How much can you?

“So can you drink it or not?” – the reader, completely confused by us, will ask. “And if so, what dose is considered safe?”

“You can!” – we will please him. But it’s all about measure. And this measure is the MAXIMUM – one liter per day. A liter of beer of ordinary strength (ethyl alcohol content 3-5%) will supply about 40 g of ethanol into the bloodstream.This is the limit of alcohol that should be consumed per day. So, if we talk not about the maximum permissible dose, but about the average rate, it is better to limit yourself to 0.5 liters of beer per day. But all these calculations do not apply to beer with a high alcohol content – up to 12%. Its use in these quantities is already fraught with toxic consequences.

Russia is a heavily drinking country. And despite the fact that we have one of the highest levels of alcohol consumption per capita, we drink beer the least of all. Our average per capita consumption of this drink ranges from 17-26 liters per year.Compare: in Finland, Hungary, Great Britain they drink 80-120 liters per year per average person; in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Denmark, Germany – more than 120 liters. At the same time, countries with a “northern” type of alcohol consumption, where they drink mostly strong drinks, are gradually switching to weaker ones, including beer. Maybe this is our way too? Still, beer is a less dangerous alcoholic drink than vodka, and less likely to cause addiction.

See also:

90,000 Beer and health – good or bad?

Beer is a natural alcoholic beverage that contains a large number of compounds formed during fermentation.The beer contains 91-93% water, 1.5-4.5% carbohydrates, 3-7% ethyl alcohol, 0.2-0.65% nitrogen-containing substances.

Beer contains a large amount of useful minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, enzymes. Beer is also called “liquid bread”. But is beer so harmless?

The effect of beer on the male body

Regular consumption of beer leads to the accumulation of heavy salts and phytoestrogens in the body, which are a plant analogue of female sex hormones – progesterone.Phytoestrogens are found in large quantities in the main component of beer – hop cones and have a significant effect on the human hormonal system, as a result of which hormonal disruption occurs.

With frequent consumption of beer, a man may develop feminine features: enlargement of the mammary glands, pelvis, rounding of the hips. In many cases, the character of a man can change, he can become more irritable, hysterical.

Alcohol, in particular beer, has an effect on hunger centers, disinhibits hunger and promotes excessive absorption of food, from which a beer belly appears.

In addition, beer has a negative effect on the work of the heart. Drinking beer causes an overflow of the circulatory system, varicose veins, expansion of the borders of the heart, which gradually becomes flabby and weak.

Beer and Potency

Beer causes endocrine changes, overweight, and weakening of the heart, which negatively affects male libido. These factors can cause the development of secondary frigidity.

Experts warn that beer consumption should be moderate. But at the same time, it is impossible to establish a certain rate for all people – for each person, the rate of beer consumption is individual and depends on hereditary factors, body weight, general condition of the body.

However, Swedish scientists were able to establish a beer consumption rate for both men and women. The maximum bar for men is 0.5-1.0 liters, and for women – 200-500 ml.

Beer and childbearing

In ancient times, even nursing mothers were advised to drink beer, but now experts completely reject such benefits of beer and warn all people to drink beer as little as possible.

Beer affects the vital functions of the testicles and ovaries. Both frequent drunkenness and moderate consumption of beer have the same effect. There is a pattern between alcohol dependence and liver dysfunctions and estrogen-depleting abilities.An increase in the amount of estrogen leads to inhibition of the gonadotropic function of the pituitary gland, which leads to atrophy of the gonads.

Abuse of beer leads to irregularities in the regularity of the menstrual cycle, increases the likelihood of breast cancer, and lowers libido. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause deformity in the fetus, the formation of a hereditary tendency to alcoholism.

Excessive consumption of beer has a negative effect on various internal organs,
can be the cause of sexual problems and other abnormalities.

90,000 10 scientific reasons why drinking beer is healthy and not harmful

International Beer Day is celebrated on 7 August. The first time this holiday was celebrated in 2007, in the city of Santa Cruz, California, and the owner of his own bar, Jesse Avshalomov, became the founder. The beginning of August was chosen for a reason – there are no other holidays associated with beer nearby, and it is more often warm than cold outside. In honor of this day, we suggest remembering the usefulness of the foamy drink.

“Drink foamy beer – life will be excellent!” It turns out that there is a fair amount of truth in this statement. There are many scientific reasons for drinking beer. And in this issue you will find a dozen arguments in favor of a foamy drink.

1. Beer prolongs life.

Researchers at Virginia Tech found that people who regularly drink beer in moderation reduced their risk of dying prematurely by 19%. In addition, beer promotes the rejuvenation of blood vessel cells by accelerating certain metabolic processes in the body, and also has a calming and analgesic effect and helps to inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria.

2. Beer helps to lose weight.

There is a widespread stereotype in society that people get fat from beer. But a new book by Tim Spector, a professor at King’s College London, says otherwise. It says that light beer is a good source of nutrients for beneficial gut bacteria that make your digestive system work more efficiently. In addition, beer helps to activate the secretion of gastric juice, stimulates the digestive system.

3. Beer helps fight cancer.

This alcoholic beverage contains ingredients that help the human body fight cancer. This is the conclusion made by medical scientists from the Japanese National Institute of Radiology. In hops, in particular, xanthohumol is found – a flavonoid that inhibits carcinogenic enzymes.

4. Beer helps the brain to function normally.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that women who drink one glass of beer a day are less likely to suffer from cognitive problems caused by aging.

5. Beer does not really give a “beer” belly.

A study by the UCL Foundation aimed to prove the existence of a connection between the amount of beer a person drinks and how quickly his belly rounds. No scientific evidence for this has ever been found. “People believe that beer drinkers are on average more obese than others. But this is not the case. If there is a link between beer and obesity, then it is negligible, ”the researchers concluded.

6. Beer can relieve you of kidney stones.

People who drink beer in moderation are 41% less likely to suffer from kidney stones. These are the conclusions reached by American researchers who described their work in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.

7. Beer has fewer calories than skim milk or orange juice.

In terms of the content of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, beer does not differ from orange juice – a glass of which, drunk at breakfast, is a symbol of a healthy lifestyle.But at the same time, there are fewer calories in the foamy drink. Guinness recently released statistics that convincingly prove that even its “heavy”, dark beers contain fewer calories than any sugary drink or even skim milk.

8. Beer hops protects against Alzheimer’s disease.

Although beer cannot protect you from an unpleasant state when it is impossible to remember what happened last night, in general it is useful for memory rather than harmful.Xanthohumol, one of the compounds in hops, has been shown to protect the brain from age-related degenerative changes like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, according to recent research.

9. Beer is full of vitamins.

“If you take a close look at the chemistry of a good beer, you will be amazed at the amount of vitamins it contains,” says Stefan Domenig, director of the Mayra Health Center in Austria. For example, beer contains a lot of vitamins B1 and B2, and they are present there in a form that is well absorbed.One liter of this drink will provide 40-60% of the daily requirement for thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2). Beer is rich in ascorbic acid. A liter of beer will give you 70% of the daily intake of vitamin C. And to meet the daily need for nicotinic and folic acids, it is enough to drink only half a glass.

10. Beer strengthens bones.

Beer helps to maintain bone density and elasticity of joints due to the content of silicon in an easily digestible form. Who would have thought that a glass of beer in the afternoon could help build denser bone.So, in any case, according to the authoritative scientific journal Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.

See also: Cities of the world where beer can be slammed cheapest are named

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90,000 Beer is good for health … – BBC News Russian Service

• Alexander Smirnov
• Blogger

August 21, 2009

This story caught my attention this week:

Spanish scientists claim that women who drink more beer have stronger bones, according to the journal Nutrition.

A study in which nearly 1700 women took part showed that those who regularly drink alcohol have more dense bones than non-drinkers. At the same time, doctors warn that drinking more than two conventional units of alcohol per day (approximately the same amount is contained in 0.5 liters of beer) negatively affects bone health.

Beer is useful for health.

For women (as well as for men):

Fill in the eyebrows in the evening –

And in the morning there are no wrinkles at all!

And the benefits are not only in beer

For the attractiveness of ladies –

It helps them to become more beautiful

Table wine Agdam.

Champagne, Madeira, sherry –

A set of very reliable products.

They accentuate the charm

And increase interest.

Merlot, Rkatseteli, Riesling,

Kadarka, Codru, Cabernet

I am led to a bright thought:

No more beautiful than our women!

Your letters

I have repeatedly read that a small amount of alcohol is useful, in my country, Latvia is a cult of beer, and the best is live beer Uzhavas, without preservatives, not pasteurized, there are dark and light, both are easily intoxicating and very interesting on the palate, with hints of malt and hops, a real feast for a beer gourmet, although it is twice as expensive as usual varieties.