Beer is one of the oldest beverages in the world. It is made by fermenting grain into alcohol. Many of us take beer owing to its health benefits backed by science but the same science also claims that beer also has some drawbacks.

One can of beer contains

• Calories 150
• Protein – 2 grams
• Fats - less than 1 gram
• Carbohydrates – 13 grams
• Fiber – less than 1 gram
• Sugar - less than 1 gram

Beer is an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, niacin, and folate. It is considered that the darker the beer, the more antioxidants it is. Antioxidants fight with free radicals present in the body and prevent certain chronic conditions. Beer has significant health benefits only if we take it in moderation. Moderation is the key. Consuming too much beer has several potential risks for our bodies. Hence avoid its excess consumption.

Health benefits

Improves blood sugar levels - Drinking light amounts of alcohol may help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and help people with diabetes control their blood sugar more effectively. One study showed that one to two alcoholic drinks a day could lower the risk of developing diabetes by as much as 50%. But this statement is only applicable to low-sugar beers like light beers so cross-check it before you experiment.

Lowers the risk of heart disease – Consuming one to two beers a day helps you lower the risk of heart disease. A study showed that one drink a day lowered the risk of all-cause mortality for women and up to two beers a day produced the same results for men. But only one study is not enough to believe the fact. It needed more research to support the fact.

Good for bone strength - Moderate amounts of beer may help strengthen bones for men and postmenopausal women. Here kindly check the keyword that is moderate.

Side effects of drinking beer

Addiction - All alcohol carries the potential for dependency. Alcohol is an addictive substance, so people with a family history of addiction should be cautious about drinking beer or any other alcohol.

Lowers the life expectancy – Heavy drinking can reduce the life expectancy by up to 28 years.

Increased risk of liver disease – Heavy drinking (more than 2) can increase the chances of developing fatty liver disease or liver cirrhosis or cancer. 

Weight gain – As you have seen, beers are high in calories, so drinking large amounts frequently can lead to substantial weight gain. Studies have confirmed that drinking beer increases waist circumference. So, avoid your beer belly.

Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.