Beer, aside from being a favorite drink in many occasions, also has some health benefits. In fact, it is said to be good for someone's health -- that is if it is taken in moderation.
In a study published in "The American Journal of the Medicinal Sciences," it was found out that there is growing evidence proving the nutritional and health benefits of drinking alcohol moderately. The claim is also confirming that it could be a part of a healthy lifestyle, per The South China Morning Post.
The study revealed that beer has more protein and B vitamins compared to wine. It is also high in antioxidants that could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, this could only work if they only drink in moderation -- one drink per day for women and a maximum of two drinks for men.
This, too, could only work if the person has a healthy and balanced diet. Hongkonger Sisi Yip, a nutritionist and personal trainer in Hong Kong, revealed that beer has a lot of healthy compounds. "Beer contains trace amounts of minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium, fluoride, and silicon," she said.
Beers, even the non-alcoholic ones, also have a variety of polyphenols like flavonoids and phenolic acids. However, only regular beers have the highest levels of polyphenols compared to the dark and light varieties. It can also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease because of its anti-inflammatory effects.
According to different studies, via The Star Online, beer's main ingredient called xanthohumol can reduce the possibility of insulin resistance in patients with diabetes.
However, advantages also come with disadvantages. Too much alcohol intake is also linked to different kinds of illnesses like blood pressure and liver disease. It can also cause hangover and loss of cognitive function when intoxicated. Beer is also known to contain high calories and carbohydrates.
So if a person is a heavy drinker, they have to limit their drink and spread it over the week. "Men and women are advised not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis," Sisi explained.
If a person drinks 14 bottles a week, then he or she has to divide it for "three or more days." Sisi added that the ideal consumption to make beer as a part of a healthy lifestyle is one pint for men and half a pint for women a day.
