Benefits of Beer

by: AndreaDow
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I recently wrote about the benefits of wine after a trip to wine country. But with fall football in full swing and an evening spent at a local Oktoberfest, I can't neglect reporting that beer also has some health benefits. Some of the benefits may even surprise you!

EatingWell magazine reports that beer contains antioxidants and B vitamins. Some beers even have some soluble fiber which can help reduce cholesterol and prevent heart disease. Barley not only provides additional fiber in beer, it contains more than 14 vitamins and nutrients, including potassium, calcium, phosphorous, and beta carotene. The alcohol in beer may further lower cardiovascular risk by decreasing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. According to mayoclinic.com, beer can contribute to your daily water consumption as it is 90% water. Beer should NOT be a major portion of your fluid intake, however!

Build up your bones with beer? Yes! Tufts University studied 2,900 men and women drinking one to two beers per day had higher bone density than non beer drinkers.

Unlike wine, the darker colored beers do not contain more antioxidants than the lighter lagers. The color simply reflects the length of time for malt (sugars extracted from the grain) roasting.

Well, you can toss back a beer at the next tailgate knowing that, in moderation of one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for me, it does a body good!

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