The health benefits of red wine have been discussed for many years.
What about beer drinkers then, do they have nothing to benefit from?
Yes, according to a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health the alcohol type has less relevance than the amount you drink: a glass a day for women and two glasses a day for men is okay.
So, with inspiration from the American magazine Shape, we have listed five good things about beer.
- Beer provides the body with important nutrients and vitamins
Most types of beer contain several B vitamins, as well as plenty of phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Dark beers are also rich in fibre and iron, which can counteract fatigue and irritation. So is it time to put the beer on the same shelf as the coconut water and other healthy drinks future?
- Strengthens your bones
Beer is rich in silicon, a substance that is important for building up our skeleton. According to American research the kind of pale ale contains larger quantities, while lager and wheat beer is not as rich.
- Prevents dementia
According to a recent study, beer can prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The hops in the beer contain the substance xanthohumol which protects brain cells from degradation and optimizes memory capacity.
- Protects your heart
Usually it is wine which is mentioned in this context, but the fact is that all alcoholic beverages lower cholesterol and thin the blood, reducing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. However, this is in moderate consumption. If you drink large quantities of beer instead it increases the health risks.
- Reduces the risk of diabetes
Studies have shown that people who drink one or two glasses of beer, wine or other alcoholic drinks a day have a lower risk of diabetes than those who drink more or not at all. The alcohol is believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect and improve insulin sensitivity.
