Is beer good for your health. What are the potential benefits of moderate beer consumption. How does beer impact heart health, bone strength, and blood sugar levels. What are the risks associated with excessive beer consumption. What nutritional value does beer provide.

The Nutritional Profile of Beer: More Than Just Empty Calories

Beer, one of the world’s oldest beverages, has been a part of human culture for millennia. Its rich history stretches back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of beer recipes found in Egyptian tombs, Mesopotamian archaeological sites, and Babylonian texts. But what exactly does this age-old drink offer in terms of nutrition?

A standard 12-ounce (354 ml) serving of beer typically contains:

• Calories: 103-153
• Protein: 1-2 grams
• Fat: Less than 1 gram
• Carbohydrates: 6-13 grams
• Fiber: Less than 1 gram
• Sugar: Less than 1 gram

While these numbers may vary depending on the type of beer, it’s clear that beer is not just empty calories. It also provides several essential nutrients:

• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Phosphorus
• Niacin
• Folate

Interestingly, the color of beer can indicate its antioxidant content. Darker beers tend to have higher levels of antioxidants, which are compounds that fight free radicals in the body and may help reduce the risk of chronic conditions and certain forms of cancer.

Potential Cardiovascular Benefits: Can Beer Be Heart-Healthy?

One of the most intriguing areas of research regarding beer and health is its potential impact on cardiovascular health. Several studies have suggested that moderate beer consumption may have protective effects on the heart.

Does beer consumption affect the risk of heart disease? Research indicates that consuming one to two beers a day may help lower the risk of heart disease. In fact, some studies suggest that beer may be as effective as wine in improving overall heart health when consumed at comparable alcohol levels.

A notable study found that one alcoholic drink per day lowered the risk of all-cause mortality for women, while up to two beers a day produced similar results for men. However, it’s important to note that while these findings are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between beer consumption and cardiovascular health.

The Role of Polyphenols in Beer’s Heart Health Benefits

Beer contains polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties. These compounds may contribute to the potential cardiovascular benefits of moderate beer consumption. Xanthohumol, a flavonoid found in hops, has shown promising results in preliminary studies for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Beer and Blood Sugar: Surprising Effects on Diabetes Risk

The relationship between beer consumption and blood sugar levels has been a subject of interest in recent years. Can drinking beer actually help manage blood sugar levels?

Research suggests that light to moderate alcohol consumption, including beer, may help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and assist people with diabetes in controlling their blood sugar more effectively. One study showed that consuming one to two alcoholic drinks a day could lower the risk of developing diabetes by as much as 50%.

It’s important to note that this effect is strongest for low-sugar beers, such as light beers. The carbohydrate content of beer can vary significantly, so individuals concerned about blood sugar levels should pay close attention to the type of beer they choose to consume.

The Mechanism Behind Beer’s Effect on Blood Sugar

The potential blood sugar-regulating effects of beer may be attributed to its alcohol content. Alcohol can increase insulin sensitivity and improve glucose metabolism. However, it’s crucial to remember that excessive alcohol consumption can have the opposite effect, leading to increased blood sugar levels and other health risks.

Bone Health and Beer: An Unexpected Connection

Could enjoying a beer occasionally contribute to stronger bones? Early research suggests that moderate amounts of beer may indeed help strengthen bones, particularly in men and postmenopausal women.

How does beer potentially improve bone strength? The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it’s believed that the alcohol content in beer, when consumed in moderation, may have a positive effect on bone density. Additionally, beer contains silicon, a mineral that has been linked to increased bone mineral density.

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that this potential benefit is only associated with moderate consumption. The positive effects on bone health sharply decline when consumption exceeds two drinks per day, underscoring the importance of moderation.

Silicon in Beer: A Key Player in Bone Health?

Silicon, found in significant amounts in beer, particularly in lighter ales and lagers, may play a role in promoting bone health. This mineral is involved in bone and connective tissue formation. Some studies suggest that dietary silicon intake is positively associated with bone mineral density, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

The Dark Side of Beer: Understanding the Risks of Excessive Consumption

While moderate beer consumption may offer some health benefits, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks associated with excessive drinking. What are the dangers of consuming too much beer?

• Addiction Potential: Like all alcoholic beverages, beer carries the risk of dependency. Individuals with a family history of addiction should be particularly cautious.
• Reduced Life Expectancy: Heavy drinking can significantly increase the risk of death from all causes. Some studies suggest that excessive alcohol consumption could reduce life expectancy by up to 28 years.
• Liver Disease: Consuming more than two beers a day can increase the chances of developing fatty liver disease or cirrhosis.
• Weight Gain: Many beers are high in calories, and frequent consumption can lead to substantial weight gain, particularly around the waist.

These risks underscore the importance of moderation when it comes to beer consumption. The potential health benefits of beer are quickly outweighed by the dangers of excessive drinking.

The “Beer Belly” Phenomenon: Fact or Fiction?

The term “beer belly” is commonly used to describe excess weight around the midsection, often associated with frequent beer drinking. Is there truth to this concept? Studies have indeed confirmed that drinking beer can increase waist circumference. This is likely due to the caloric content of beer and the body’s tendency to store excess calories from alcohol as fat, particularly in the abdominal area.

Antioxidants in Beer: A Closer Look at the Potential Benefits

While wine often gets the spotlight for its antioxidant content, beer also contains these beneficial compounds. What types of antioxidants are found in beer, and what potential health benefits do they offer?

Beer contains several types of antioxidants, including:

• Flavonoids: These compounds, found in hops and barley, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Ferulic acid: This antioxidant, present in beer’s malted barley, has been linked to potential cardiovascular benefits.
• Xanthohumol: Found in hops, this flavonoid has shown promise in preliminary studies for its potential anti-cancer properties.

The antioxidant content of beer can vary significantly depending on the type and brewing process. Generally, darker beers tend to have higher levels of antioxidants compared to lighter varieties.

Comparing Beer’s Antioxidant Content to Other Beverages

How does beer stack up against other beverages in terms of antioxidant content? While wine, particularly red wine, is often touted for its high antioxidant levels, some studies suggest that beer may contain similar amounts of antioxidants. However, it’s important to note that the types and concentrations of antioxidants can differ between these beverages.

Moderate Beer Consumption: Defining the “Sweet Spot” for Potential Health Benefits

Throughout this discussion of beer’s potential health effects, the term “moderate consumption” has been frequently used. But what exactly constitutes moderate beer drinking?

According to most health organizations, moderate alcohol consumption is defined as:

• For women: Up to one drink per day
• For men: Up to two drinks per day

In the context of beer, one drink is typically considered to be 12 ounces (355 ml) of regular beer (about 5% alcohol by volume).

It’s crucial to understand that these guidelines represent the upper limit of what’s considered moderate. They are not a recommendation to start drinking if you don’t already do so. Moreover, certain individuals, such as pregnant women, those with certain medical conditions, or individuals with a history of alcohol abuse, should avoid alcohol entirely.

The Importance of Individual Factors in Beer Consumption

While general guidelines for moderate consumption exist, it’s important to recognize that individual factors can influence how alcohol affects a person. These factors include:

• Body weight and composition
• Age
• Gender
• Overall health status
• Genetics
• Medications

Given these variables, what’s considered “moderate” for one person may be too much for another. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on alcohol consumption.

Beer and Mental Health: Exploring the Complex Relationship

The relationship between beer consumption and mental health is complex and multifaceted. While moderate drinking may have some positive effects on mood and stress reduction in the short term, excessive consumption can lead to significant mental health issues.

Can beer consumption affect mental health? Research suggests that moderate beer drinking may have some positive effects on mental well-being, such as:

• Stress reduction: The relaxing effects of moderate alcohol consumption may help alleviate stress.
• Social bonding: Sharing a beer with friends can promote social interaction, which is beneficial for mental health.
• Potential cognitive benefits: Some studies suggest that light to moderate drinking may be associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline in older adults.

However, it’s crucial to note that these potential benefits are outweighed by the risks associated with heavy drinking. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to or exacerbate mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.

The Impact of Beer on Sleep Quality

While a nightcap might seem like a good way to unwind before bed, alcohol, including beer, can actually disrupt sleep patterns. Although it may help you fall asleep faster, alcohol consumption can lead to poor sleep quality, increased wakefulness during the night, and reduced REM sleep. These effects can contribute to daytime fatigue and potentially impact mental health over time.

Beer and Exercise: Debunking Myths and Examining Facts

The relationship between beer consumption and exercise is a topic of much debate and interest, particularly among recreational athletes. Can beer be part of a healthy, active lifestyle?

While excessive alcohol consumption is clearly detrimental to athletic performance, the effects of moderate beer consumption are less clear-cut. Some studies have suggested potential benefits:

• Hydration: Contrary to popular belief, light beer consumption may not significantly impair hydration status in some individuals.
• Carbohydrate replenishment: The carbohydrates in beer could potentially aid in post-exercise glycogen restoration, although more nutritious options are generally recommended.
• Social aspects: Enjoying a beer with teammates can foster camaraderie and social bonds, which can be beneficial for overall well-being.

However, it’s important to note that alcohol can impair muscle recovery and protein synthesis, potentially hindering training adaptations. Additionally, the caloric content of beer should be considered in the context of overall energy balance and body composition goals.

The “Beer Mile” Phenomenon: A Cautionary Tale

The “beer mile,” a race where participants drink a beer before each quarter-mile lap, has gained popularity in recent years. While it may seem like harmless fun, this event highlights the potential dangers of combining alcohol consumption with intense physical activity. The risk of dehydration, impaired judgment, and potential alcohol poisoning make such activities potentially dangerous.

Craft Beer vs. Commercial Beer: Nutritional and Health Considerations

The craft beer revolution has led to a wide variety of beer styles and flavors. But how do craft beers compare to mass-produced commercial beers in terms of nutritional content and potential health effects?

Craft beers often differ from commercial beers in several ways:

• Ingredient quality: Craft brewers often use higher-quality, natural ingredients, which may result in beers with more nutrients and antioxidants.
• Alcohol content: Many craft beers have higher alcohol content than commercial beers, which means they may contain more calories per serving.
• Additives: Craft beers are less likely to contain preservatives and additives commonly found in mass-produced beers.
• Variety: The wide range of craft beer styles means there’s greater variation in nutritional content and potential health effects.

While some craft beers may offer more nutrients or antioxidants than their commercial counterparts, it’s important to remember that the higher alcohol and calorie content of many craft beers can negate potential health benefits if consumed in excess.

The Rise of Low-Alcohol and Non-Alcoholic Craft Beers

In recent years, there has been a surge in the production of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic craft beers. These products aim to provide the flavor complexity of craft beers without the high alcohol content. For individuals looking to enjoy the taste of beer while minimizing alcohol intake, these options may provide a suitable alternative.

Beer in Global Cultures: Diverse Traditions and Health Perspectives

Beer has played a significant role in various cultures throughout history, often intertwined with social, religious, and even medicinal practices. How do different cultures view beer in relation to health and well-being?

Cultural perspectives on beer and health vary widely around the world:

• Germany: Beer is often seen as a staple food, with some traditional beliefs attributing health benefits to moderate consumption.
• Czech Republic: The country with the highest beer consumption per capita, where beer is often viewed as a healthier alternative to spirits.
• Japan: Beer is sometimes marketed for its purported health benefits, including claims about dietary fiber content in some brands.
• United States: Views are mixed, with increasing awareness of both potential benefits of moderate consumption and risks of excessive drinking.

These cultural differences highlight the complex relationship between beer, health, and society. It’s important to interpret health claims about beer in the context of overall dietary patterns and lifestyle factors.

Traditional Beer-Based Remedies: Fact or Fiction?

Throughout history, beer has been used in various traditional remedies. For example, in medieval Europe, small beer (a low-alcohol beer) was often consumed instead of water due to its perceived health benefits and lower risk of contamination. While many of these traditional uses lack scientific backing, they underscore the long-standing cultural associations between beer and health.

In conclusion, the relationship between beer and health is complex and multifaceted. While moderate consumption may offer some potential benefits, these are quickly outweighed by the risks associated with excessive drinking. As with many aspects of diet and lifestyle, moderation and individual considerations are key. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on alcohol consumption and its potential impacts on your health.

Are There Health Benefits? Pros and Cons, Nutrition Information, and More

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Reviewed by Christine Mikstas, RD, LD on November 17, 2022

In this Article

• Nutrition Information
• Potential Health Benefits of Beer
• Potential Risks of Beer

from the WebMD Ingredients Guide

Serving Size 12 Fluid ounce (354 g)

Calories 103

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 0 g

0%

Saturated Fat 0 g

0%

Trans Fat 0 g

Cholesterol 0 mg

0%

Sodium 14 mg

1%

Potassium 0 mg

0%

Total Carbohydrate 6 g

2%

Dietary Fiber 0 g

0%

Sugar 0 g

Protein 1 g

2%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

• Vitamin C 0%
• Iron 0%
• Vitamin B6 0%
• Magnesium 0%
• Calcium 1%
• Vitamin D 0%
• Cobalamin 0%
• Vitamin A 0%

Beer is one of the oldest beverages in the world. Beer recipes can be found in Egyptian tombs, Mesopotamian archeological sites, and Babylonian texts. Today, beer is found in grocery stores and breweries around the world. People are even rediscovering the joy of making beer at home. 

Beer is easy enough to make, after all. It’s the product of fermenting grain into alcohol. It may have even been one of the first inventions after the Agricultural Revolution. 

Beer has been important in human culture for thousands of years. It’s no wonder some people proclaim that it has health benefits. While science can support some of these claims, beer also has drawbacks.

One can of beer (about 12 ounces) contains:

• Calories: 153
• Protein: 2 grams
• Fat: Less than 1 gram
• Carbohydrates: 13 grams
• Fiber: Less than 1 gram
• Sugar: Less than 1 gram

Beer is an excellent source of:

• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Phosphorus
• Niacin
• Folate

Depending on the color, some beers are also good sources of antioxidants. The darker the beer, the more  antioxidants it tends to have. Antioxidants fight free radicals in your body, reducing the risk of chronic conditions and certain forms of cancer.

As mentioned, beer is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and some also contain antioxidants. Research supports a number of potential health benefits to drinking moderate amounts of beer:

Lower Risk of Heart Disease 

Several reviews have suggested that consuming one to two beers a day may help lower your risk of heart disease. In fact, beer may be as effective at improving general heart health as wine at comparable alcohol levels.

One study showed that one drink a day lowered the risk of all-cause mortality for women and up to two beers a day produced the same results for men. While one study  is not enough to identify the cause for this, research is promising.

Improved Blood Sugar Levels

Drinking light amounts of alcohol may help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and help people with diabetes control their blood sugar more effectively. One study showed that one to two alcoholic drinks a day could lower the risk of developing diabetes by as much as 50%.

This effect is strongest for low-sugar beers, such as light beers, so pay attention to the type of beer you drink.

Increased Bone Strength

Early research suggests that moderate amounts of beer may help strengthen bones for men and postmenopausal women. This may be because alcohol in general, in moderate amounts, can help your bones. But this benefit sharply drops when consumption passes two drinks a day, so moderation is key.

The same aspects that make beer so potent can also cause health problems for people. Once beer consumption is heavy, over two drinks per day, it carries many potential risks.

Consider the following before adding significant amounts of beer to your diet:

Potential for Addiction

All alcohol carries the potential for dependency. Alcohol is an addictive substance, so people with a family history of addiction should be cautious with drinking beer or any other alcohol. Furthermore, heavy drinking eliminates most health benefits of beer, making addiction a double-edged sword. 

Reduced Life Expectancy

Heavy consumption significantly increases your risk of death from all causes. Studies show that heavy drinking reduces life expectancy by up to 28 years. 

Increased Risk of Liver Disease

Drinking more than two beers a day can increase chances of developing fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis.

Weight Gain

Many beers are high in calories, so drinking large amounts frequently can lead to substantial weight gain. “Beer belly” is a common term to describe someone who has extra weight around their waist. Studies have confirmed that drinking beer increases waist circumference.

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Is beer healthy? How much should people drink? What to know

Beer may have certain health benefits, such as decreasing the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. However, excessive consumption can lead to conditions such as cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Manufacturers make beer by fermenting starches, usually malted barley, with yeast. The brewing process of modern beer involves using hops and other flavoring agents and typically contains about 3.5–10% alcohol.

While beer may have some health benefits, it can also negatively affect a person’s mental and physical health. Additionally, while this beverage contains some nutritional value, it is not suitable as an alternative to a nutritious, balanced diet.

Read this article to learn more about beer’s nutritional information, the benefits and side effects of drinking beer, and the recommended amount a person should drink.

Although people view beer as a drink with little nutritional value, it does contain various nutrients.

The minerals within beer typically include:

• calcium
• copper
• iron
• magnesium
• manganese
• silicon
• selenium
• fluoride
• phosphorus
• potassium
• sodium
• zinc

The vitamins within beer usually include:

• vitamin B1, or thiamin
• vitamin B2, or riboflavin
• vitamin B3, or niacin
• vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid
• vitamin B6
• folate
• choline
• vitamin B12, or cobalamine
• vitamin A
• vitamin E
• vitamin D
• vitamin K

Beer also contains the following amino acids:

• alanine
• aspartic acid
• glutamic acid
• glycine
• proline

Despite its reputation, light to moderate beer consumption may have positive health effects. It may even reduce the risk of some diseases.

Heart disease

Some research suggests that drinking beer may help decrease the risk of heart disease.

A recent review article from 2020 concludes that people who consume beer in moderate amounts have higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol — or “good” cholesterol, better vascular elasticity, and higher apolipoprotein A1 levels.

Another 2016 review article found that low to moderate beer consumption, which it defined as up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men, decreased the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The researchers for both studies defined low to moderate amounts as up to one can of 330 milliliters of beer containing around 5% alcohol daily for women and up to two cans for men.

Neurodegenerative disease

The same review article found that low to moderate beer consumption decreased the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Another review from 2019 claims that moderate beer consumption may help decrease the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Blood sugar control

Some studies show how low to moderate alcohol consumption may help control blood sugar levels, an issue for many adults.

For example, a 2018 study concludes that low to moderate alcohol consumption has associations with better blood sugar levels and a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Another study from 2019 concludes that moderate alcohol consumption may decrease the risk of developing dementia.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis causes the bones to become brittle and more susceptible to breaks. The risk for this disease increases as a person ages.

Some research suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may help decrease the risk of osteoporosis.

For example, a 2019 study found that postmenopausal women from South Korea who drank 2–3 times per week had higher bone density than South Korean postmenopausal women who did not drink.

However, it is important to note that to achieve any of the potential positive side effects of drinking beer or alcohol, people must do so responsibly. This means drinking low to moderate amounts and not engaging in excessive drinking.

Although drinking beer may have some positive health outcomes, this only appears relevant when people drink the beverage in light or moderate amounts.

Heavy or excessive drinking may lead to negative health consequences, including:

• cancer
• liver failure
• cardiovascular disease
• diabetes
• pancreatic disease
• infectious diseases
• neuropsychiatric diseases
• weight gain
• depression

People who drink excessive amounts of alcohol may also be more likely to engage in risky behavior, potentially leading to major bodily injury or death.

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americanssuggest consuming a moderate amount of alcohol. The authors define this as 1 drink for women and 1 drink for men. In beer, one drink consists of 12 ounces of this beverage.

Drinking more than recommended guidelines may result in negative health outcomes.

Recommendations on drinking beer appear to be inconclusive. However, it seems people can safely consume beer as long as they do not do so excessively. Individuals should try not to drink more than the recommended amount.

Even though beer contains a variety of nutrients, people should not turn to beer for its nutritional value. Eating a diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins should be more of a priority.

Beer is a fermented beverage that people have been consuming for years.

Light to moderate amounts of beer may help decrease the risk of diseases such as heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and type 2 diabetes.

While there appears to be some benefit to drinking beer, it is not a beverage that individuals should consume excessively. Heavy or excessive drinking may lead to numerous negative health effects.

Beer contains many nutrients, but people should not consume it as a way to increase nutrient intake. Instead, they should focus on following a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Beer: benefits and harms for the body, how much beer can be drunk without harm to health – 11 July 2022

Oksana Laryushkina

Vladislav Ledovsky, head of the project group of the medical faculty of the Synergy University, reports.

The doctor told what will happen to the body if you drink every weekend

Harm of beer for the human body but it is not. Modern medicine has come to the conclusion that any dose of alcohol is harmful to the human body. The difference is that some doses of alcohol are high-risk, while others are low-risk: in medicine they are measured in drinks.

One drink is a standard unit of alcohol that is equal to approximately 14 grams of pure alcohol or one bottle of beer. According to this logic, a woman can drink one bottle of beer every day, and a man two bottles. But this carries the risk of developing cardiovascular, oncological and other diseases, and also leads to a decrease in life expectancy. Alcohol consumption increases the risk of death, including as a result of the social consequences of intoxication: road accidents, fights, trauma.

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Many consider beer to be a harmless drink, but at the same time it negatively affects the physical and mental health of a person. Frequent drinking of beer can affect the emotional background of a person: he feels anxiety and aggression, becomes easily excitable, quick-tempered, then such a mood sharply becomes apathetic. Among the physiological disorders that provokes the constant use of beer:

• disruption of the heart, liver, kidneys, blood vessels;
• dehydration;
• disturbances in the functioning of the brain, impairment of memory and coordination of movements, decrease in intellectual abilities;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: heartburn, flatulence, gastritis, gastric ulcer;
• The most common danger of frequent drinking is beer alcoholism and weight gain.

Benefits of beer

You can find references to the benefits of beer and other alcoholic beverages on the Internet. This benefit, if it really exists, pales before the harm that drinking beer can bring. Doctors agree that if a person cannot completely stop drinking alcohol, he should limit himself to one drink for women and two drinks for men per day.

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Among the beneficial properties of beer, some doctors mention:

• the drink removes aluminum compounds from the body;
• lowers blood pressure;
• people who drink in moderation are about 41% less likely to suffer from kidney stones;
• Beer is considered a diuretic drink, but at the same time, a large amount of microelements leaves the body with it, which creates their deficiency.

Norm of beer consumption

According to doctors, the acceptable norm for men is no more than 0.5 liters per day and no more than 3-5 times a week. For women: no more than 0.3 liters per day and no more than 2-3 times a week. This applies to beer, with a strength of no more than 3-5%.

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Who is contraindicated for beer

Beer, like any alcohol, is completely contraindicated for:

• pregnant women;
• young people under 21;
• those undergoing treatment for drug and alcohol addiction;
• those who take medications. Many drugs interact with alcohol: it can increase or decrease the effect of the effect. When visiting a doctor, you should clarify how the drugs that they are prescribed interact with alcohol.

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researchers talk about the benefits of beer for the body – Pivo.by

Lisa Morrison on the Craft Beer website talks about the health benefits of beer, provided that it is consumed reasonably and in moderation. Pivo.by publishes the translation of the material.

Photo: Elevate

At the end of a long and tiring day, nothing tastes better than a glass or two of refreshing craft beer. However, a recent study shows that the healthy amount of its consumption is only five glasses per week. Considering that 14 glasses per week for men and seven for women have so far been considered the recommended safe limit for alcohol consumption, the results of the latest study may cause some concern and a logical question: what is considered moderate consumption of beer and how useful is it in principle?

Good news: scientists do not deny the beneficial effect of beer on our body. Below is a summary of the health benefits of beer when consumed wisely and in moderation.

Beer and brain activity

If you think that after a glass of gose you feel much better, you are absolutely right. Many studies support the notion that beer (and, in principle, all alcoholic beverages) helps to relax after a grueling day. But we ourselves know this!

The benefits of beer, however, are not only about uplifting the spirit and improving overall well-being. Studies show that beer, more than wine and other alcoholic beverages, has a beneficial effect on our brain activity.

This effect is explained by the fact that beer contains dietary silicon in an easily digestible form. High levels of silicon in grains, green beans, and beer (due to malt) help protect our brains from certain substances and compounds that experts say can lead to cognitive decline over time, according to a 2013 study. . In addition, the results of a Chinese study show that a substance called xanthohumol, contained in hops, can protect neurons from destruction, preventing the subsequent development of diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

In addition, beer stimulates our intellectual abilities, creativity and resourcefulness. In the study, published in the journal Consciousness and Cognition, the researchers asked subjects to solve a series of puzzles and brain teasers, with one group being asked to drink a beer before the tasks began. The subjects who drank the beer completed the tasks faster than their sober opponents. In addition, it was found that the probability of finding a non-standard solution after drinking beer increases by almost 30%.

Beer and the skeletal system

Another word for silicon, which is found in beer but not found in wine and other alcoholic beverages. According to a scientific review published in the International Journal of Endocrinology, beer is a source of silicon, which is one of the building blocks of bone tissue.

According to a study that mentions beer, grains and green beans, eating foods rich in silicon plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women when bone loss occurs.

Speaking of physiological “changes”, it should be noted that the hops used to make beer contain high amounts of phytoestrogens. It is believed that being a natural source of estrogen, the female sex hormone, they are able to help the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity cope with the irreversible changes that occur in their body after menopause.

Beer and the Cardiovascular System

Red wine has long been a health favorite because of its beneficial effect on the heart. From 19In the 80s, all nutritionists and doctors vied with each other about wine, in particular red, as a panacea for our cardiovascular system. Thanks to the so-called French Paradox (a term that refers to the comparatively low rate of cardiovascular disease among French people in conditions of high cholesterol and saturated fat in their diet), it is believed that moderate wine consumption is directly associated with a low risk of heart attack, stroke or death from heart disease, although in fact it’s all about PR support, which wine will be much more effective than beer and other alcoholic beverages.

Further scientific work, including a study published in the American Journal of Medicine, has shown that the low incidence of cardiovascular disease is due to the beneficial effects of ethanol present in beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages. In addition, the authors of this publication state that “From a nutritional point of view, beer contains more protein and B vitamins than wine.” More benefits? This is worth a drink!

The 2016 American Heart Association Scientific Session presented results from a preliminary six-year study of 80,000 subjects showing that moderate alcohol consumption results in higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol, in the body and therefore a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The study also showed that men who had a heart attack and consumed beer in moderation (no more than two glasses a day) were 42% less likely to die from heart disease.

Published results of a 2012 study show that the ethanol found in beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages contributes to the destruction of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of arteries and vessels, thereby preventing the development of a heart attack. The case when another sip of craft beer can be safely “taken to heart”.

Drew Beamer

Beer and vision

Putting aside the joke about the drunk look, remember: drinking a glass of beer a day, you will forget about visits to the optometrist. Canadian scientists have found that daily consumption of beer – especially stout or other dark varieties – reduces the likelihood of developing cataracts by 50%. But there is one point to consider here. Drinking three or more servings of beer a day has the exact opposite effect – it increases the risk of cataract formation.

Beer and disease prevention

Numerous studies have linked moderate beer consumption to effective disease prevention. In other words, if you are sick – get treatment, if you are healthy – drink beer. Here are some of the results:

Finnish scientists found that beer prevents the formation of kidney stones. In the course of the study, they concluded that “beer consumption is inversely related to the risk of stones: for each bottle of beer drunk per day, the likelihood of their occurrence decreases by 40%.