When it comes to the health benefits of spirits, wine has always enjoyed the golden halo while beer has got an unfair rap as something that goes straight to your waistline.
However, recent research has shown that beer has its fair share of health benefits as well. Read on to find out.
1. Good for your heart
Beer raises our good HDL cholesterol and lowers the bad LDL cholesterol. Beer drinkers have a 40 to 60 per cent reduced risk of suffering a heart attack compared to non-beer drinkers.
2. Good for bones
Moderate beer drinking can actually give you stronger bones. Studies have linked beer drinking to higher bone densities among women. The elevated levels of silicon in beer can contribute to a higher bone density.
3. Better brain function
One 12 oz beer a day for women has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and improved brain function. Studies say beer drinkers are less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia than non-beer drinkers.
4. Lower blood pressure
Studies have found that women who drink moderate amounts of beer had lower blood pressures than those who drink wine or other spirits.
5. Beer has vitamins, minerals and fibre
Regular beer (standard 12-ounce) contains fibre, B vitamins calcium, magnesium, and selenium (a key antioxidant). A Dutch study found that beer drinkers had 30 per cent higher levels of vitamin B6 than their non-drinking counterparts. Vitamin B12 found in beer prevents anaemia.
