Love kicking back with beer and some pepper soup after work? You are actually getting some nutrients you don’t know about! The ingredients in beer comprise of hops, yeast, water and cereals, provide antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Further, research has linked moderate beer consumption (or no more than one 12-ounce glass of 5-percent alcohol by volume beer a day for women and two glasses a day for men) with heart and bone health, improved psychological, cognitive well-being and a reduced risk of diabetes. Let’s raise a glass (or two) to the health benefits of beer consumption:
1. Beer contains nutrients.
Beer is 90 percent water and contains hops, yeast, and grains which contribute carbohydrates, a small amount of B vitamins, and potassium. Beer also has a unique antioxidant profile, with a majority coming from the malt and the remainder from the hops. The nutrient composition depends on the ingredients in the beer. Not gonna mention brand names but always go for the best beer!
2. Beer may boost bone health.
Dietary silicon, found in beer, is important for the growth and development of bone and connective tissues. One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that moderate drinkers were 38 percent less likely to have osteoporosis than non-drinkers, while another study published in Osteoporosis International found that moderate drinkers had a 20 percent lower risk of hip fractures than non-drinkers. It has been suggested that beer’s dietary silicon may be responsible for part of these bone-protecting effects. Beers containing high levels of malted barley and hops are richest in silicon.
3. Beer may improve cholesterol.
A 2016 study presented at the American Heart Association’s scientific sessions looked at 80,000 healthy Chinese adults and found that moderate drinking was associated with a slower decrease in good cholesterol over time. But here’s one case where more isn’t better: The study also says although one beer a day appears to improve your lipid profile and lower oxidation of LDL in some cases, drinking three or more beers may adversely affect your lipid profile, heart health, and increase your risk of getting certain diseases such as certain cancers, high blood pressure, and having a stoke.
4. Beer may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Several studies have linked moderate alcohol consumption with a 30 percent reduced risk of type 2 diabetes compared to not drinking or heavy drinking. Why that seems to be the case, however, is still being studied.
5. Beer may boost cognitive and psychological health.
Some Parkinson’s disease research suggests that light to moderate drinking in middle to late life is associated with less cognitive decline than not drinking or heavy drinking. The reasons behind this correlation are not well understood. Drinking beer in moderation also has psychological benefits. Studies have found it can help reduce stress and tension, and increase feelings of well-being.
