Beer - Useful And Harmful. Why?

Author: Joe Fowler Time for reading: ~2 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

In this article, learn more about Beer - Useful And Harmful. Why?. 4 health benefits and 4 negative health effects from beer consumption..

Beer is defined as the oldest and most consumed alcoholic beverage in the world and the third most popular, after water and tea.

Brewer's yeast, which is one of the main components of beer, is a rich source of nutrients. On the other hand, beer also contains alcohol, which is known to cause serious adverse health effects.

Learn about 4 benefits and 4 negative effects of beer consumption ...

1. Source of vitamins, minerals and flavonoids

Beer is rich in B vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, selenium, potassium, phosphorus. Barley and hops used in beer production are rich in flavonoids, which have a powerful antioxidant effect.

2. Against coronary heart disease

Beer is useful against cardiovascular disease due to the content of vitamins B6, B9 and B12.

Studies show that the incidence of coronary heart disease is lower among moderate beer drinkers. They are at lower risk of death from heart disease than abusers and abstainers.

According to scientists, the content of vitamin B6 in beer helps prevent the alcohol-induced rise in homocysteine in the blood, a risk factor for heart attack and stroke.

3. Cholesterol

Moderate consumption of beer also supports the health of the cardiovascular system by raising the level of "good" HDL cholesterol. The risk of heart attack is reduced by almost 30%.

4. Kidney stones

Drinking beer can reduce the risk of developing kidney stones in middle-aged men.

According to a Finnish study, beer drinkers have a 40% lower risk of kidney problems. What causes the beneficial effect has not yet been established.

What are the negative effects of regular beer consumption ...

1. Beer belly

Beer abuse can promote abdominal obesity in men and the formation of a beer belly.

It is believed that high-calorie drinkers are more prone to belly fat due to their tendency to drink larger amounts without feeling full.

300 ml of beer contains about 150 calories. Light beer, for example, contains an average of between 60-100 calories, so it is more preferred by women.

2. Acids

Beer contains powerful stimulants of gastric secretion and can cause gastroesophageal reflux and heartburn.

3. Blood pressure

Daily consumption of beer (approximately 40 g of alcohol) can raise blood pressure, which increases the risk of cardiovascular problems.

4. Cirrhosis

Alcohol has been shown to cause liver disease, including cirrhosis. According to scientists, excessive consumption inflames liver cells.

However, regular and long-term use of beer can also lead to liver disease.