Consumption of a pint of beer daily can improve the health of the heart and arteries. Greek scientists have found that blood flow to the body improves significantly within a few hours after consumption. Arteries are much more flexible and passable, the researchers added.
The findings of Greek researchers support previous evidence that moderate consumption of amber drink protects against cardiovascular disease.
There is evidence that one glass of beer a day reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke by 30%.
The study involved 17 non-smoking men aged 25-30 years.
The volunteers underwent heart and artery tests before and after consuming 400 ml of beer.
Study participants were tested for endothelial function, a measure of the conductivity of arteries, and the ability of blood to pass through them. The stiffness of the aorta was also measured, which is an indicator of the condition of the blood vessels. The presence of aortic stiffness is an indicator of cardiovascular disease.
The results show significantly improved endothelial function after beer consumption. The combination of alcohol and antioxidants in beer is crucial for the healthy effect of beer, explains the research team.
The results and data from the study are published in the Nutrition Journal.
Beer consumption should be moderate. Otherwise, the effect on health will be negative, experts say.