Let’s be honest (beer pine ke fayde): beer doesn’t always have the best reputation when it comes to health. But what if I told you that drinking every now and then might be good for you? Before you raise an eyebrow (or a glass), let’s look at what science says about the possible benefits of drinking a modest amount of beer, along with the very essential warnings.
1. A cheer that’s good for your heart?
Here’s something to raise a glass to: According to some research, those who consume a moderate amount of beer (one a day for women, one or two for men) may be less likely to get heart disease. The reason? Beer can raise HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels and has polyphenols, which can help lower inflammation.
But if you go too far, those benefits go away. Moderation is crucial because heavy drinking raises the risk of heart disease.
2. Don’t Just Empty calories.
Beer has some nutrients, unlike sugary sodas. You could get:
B vitamins, such as B6, B9, and B12, provide you with energy.
Silicon makes bones stronger.
Hops and barley have antioxidants.
But… it isn’t a multivitamin. You would have to drink a lot to get all the nutrients you need every day, which has some clear drawbacks.
3. Bones that are stronger? Perhaps.
Beer is a good source of silicon, a mineral that affects bone density. Some studies indicate that those who drink light to moderate amounts of beer may have stronger bones than people who don’t drink beer.
But… heavy drinking accomplishes the opposite; it takes calcium out of bones and weakens them.
4. A Happy Gut Means a Happy life.
Craft beers and unfiltered beers, especially those with active yeast, have probiotics and prebiotics that can help your gut stay healthy. Some traditional beers include more fiber than a regular light lager.
But if you have a gluten or bloating problem, beer could not be good for your stomach.
5. A drink that helps you relax
Have you ever had a beer that made you feel better after a difficult day? That has a scientific basis. Drinking a little bit of alcohol can reduce stress hormones for a short time.
But drinking to cope with stress can worsen anxiety and lead to dependence.
6. Protecting Against Kidney Stones
Strangely, people who consume beer seem to have a lower risk of getting kidney stones. The high water content keeps you hydrated, and hops may help keep stones from developing.
But too much beer can also make you dehydrated, which can lead to stones. So it’s important to find a balance.
7. A Longer Life? (With a Catch)
Some studies say that consuming a reasonable amount of beer may help you live longer, maybe because it is good for your heart and stress levels.
But those who don’t drink shouldn’t start; diet and exercise are more important.
The Golden Rule: Don’t go overboard. Moderate drinking means women can have up to one drink a day and men can have up to two.
Drinking too much raises the risk of liver disease, addiction, and other health concerns.
Beer isn’t healthy, but it may have some benefits if consumed in moderation. Avoid viewing your IPA as a superfood; instead, pair it with water, maintain a healthy diet, and exercise common sense.
What do you think? Do these benefits surprise you, or do you find the hazards to be more significant? Let’s talk!