The Benefits of Beer

Beer helps reduce the risks of heart disease. Beer’s cardiovascular benefits are due to polyphenols, antioxidants that are also found in fruits, tea, and wine.

In a study of men who had undergone bypass surgery, researchers found that those who drank 355 ml of beer a day were less likely to form blood clots. Also, beer drinkers were at a reduced risk for heart attacks and strokes.

Dark is Best

The rumours are true: dark beer is especially healthy. It was found to reduce the potential harm caused by the notorious “heterocyclic aromatic amines” that form when food is heated to a high temperature. Serve a dark beer like Guinness at your next barbecue and enjoy hamburgers guilt free.
Beer contains modest amounts of niacin, folate, vitamin B6, and some minerals.  A 355 ml bottle of ordinary beer provides five to ten per cent of the recommended daily doses of these vitamins, as well as a fair amount of chromium and selenium.

Beer is lower in alcohol concentrations than wine and hard liquor. Typically, the alcohol content of beer ranges from three to eight percent, compared to an average of 12 percent in wine, and about 40 to 50 percent in hard liquor.

Beer Drinkers Beware

Downing too much can cause unwanted weight gain and obesity. Drinking one litre of beer may yield up to 600 calories. Also, beer acts as a diuretic, causing the body to flush out fluids. Excessive consumption can wash away important vitamins and minerals before the body can absorb them.

To curb your guzzling watch what you eat with beer. Beer is often served with nuts, potato chips, pretzels, and other salty foods. Because these increase feelings of thirst, they may cause you to drink more. Foods that are high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and moderate in fat are better alternatives. For example, try having eggs, meat, poultry, seafood, or whole-grains to accompany your drink.