With the general awareness that alcohol is detrimental to health, people have become more health-conscious and are now monitoring their alcohol consumption. There are indeed some health benefits associated with drinking beer, which are explained in the sections below.
The Alcohol Content
To begin with, it is advisable to start with beers that have the lowest alcohol content.
One of the best ways to measure this is by using the Alcohol by Volume (ABV) method, which is a standard estimate of the alcohol content in a drink. When it comes to beer, there are varieties with alcohol content as low as 0.5% and as high as 40-60%. Generally, beers on the lower end of the spectrum are healthier than those on the higher end. The ABV of a beer is usually indicated on the can or bottle, along with information about ingredients and the manufacturer.
As a rule of thumb, lower alcohol percentages are safer. However, this advantage may be negated if large quantities of alcohol are consumed, as explained further below.
It’s worth noting that there are “beers” available with 0% alcohol content. These are essentially imitation beers that mimic the taste of beer without containing any alcohol.
Select Beer Varieties
Another important consideration is to choose specific beers that offer unique health benefits. Below are a few examples:
Heart-Friendly Beer
Beer has long been known to have a positive effect on heart health. For instance, a study in 2012 found that moderate beer consumption was associated with a reduced risk of heart problems. This can be attributed to the abundance of natural antioxidants found in beer.
Gluten-Free Beer
This type of beer is ideal for individuals with gluten allergies. Since beer is typically made from grains, it’s crucial to find alternatives to avoid potential allergic reactions. Gluten-free beer may be a bit challenging to find, but thanks to the internet, it is possible to purchase it. Additionally, the market for gluten-free beer is growing, which is beneficial for those with gluten sensitivities.
Brain Beer
Referred to as brain-health beer by some, this variety has been shown to enhance brain function. Moderate drinkers generally have a lower risk of strokes compared to non-drinkers.
The ideal beer for these benefits would be any beer that is rich in iron, niacin, riboflavin, and other vital nutrients. In general, most beers contain these nutrients, but it’s important to consider the alcohol content, with lower percentages being the better choice.
Moderate Consumption
In addition to the above, it’s crucial to consider the quantity consumed. Regardless of what you consume, anything in excess is harmful. This is why the saying goes, “Anything in excess is poison…” and it holds true. Overindulging in anything, be it related to your health or other aspects of life such as time, peace of mind, well-being, or finances, will have a negative impact. It’s about practicing moderation and consuming things in moderate quantities.
Ultimately, what matters most is moderation rather than focusing on specific things. It is the only way to ensure long-term health and well-being.
