Beer is the alcoholic beverage of choice for Brazilians, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t misinformation about it.
Despite being an alcoholic drink, you’ve probably heard that drinking beer is good for your health. Many claim it has the benefits of containing antioxidants and B vitamins, as well as the potential to lower blood pressure. But is all this really true? Nutritionist Dani Borges clears up some myths about the drink.
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What does science say?
A long-term British study of healthy men and women over 30 found that even moderate consumption of beer can increase the risk of brain disease and hippocampal atrophy by up to three times.
“Many studies and news reports that it benefits the brain, but this is very complex. Sometimes studies with mice show results, but in people it’s totally different,” explains Dani.
The nutritionist continues: “Other times hops and barley are analyzed individually, and this does not mean that the nutrients of these ingredients will be absorbed in sufficient quantities in one can. That is, one should drink a lot, and with that come dozens of other harms of the alcohol”.
As for the improvement of blood pressure, the data is not so expressive, and there are other practices that are much healthier and with better results for blood pressure, underlines Dani Borges. “By drinking one can, we won’t notice anything so special. And by drinking more, blood pressure can also be negatively affected,” he warns.
Furthermore some beers, especially those made from unmalted cereals, contain carbohydrates which can raise the glycemic index, compromising the slimming process and inhibiting the production of testosterone, which compromises the increase in muscle mass.
Vitamins in beer
Dani advises that the beer contains small amounts of vitamin B6 and that there is a lot of false advertising for it. “It is important to note that other foods have much higher levels of this vitamin. For adults up to age 50, the ideal daily intake of vitamin B6 is 1.3 mg. Unsalted pistachios have 1.70 mg, peanuts 0.30 mg. While beer has 0.046 mg. (In 100g), that is, it is better to eat well”, advises the nutritionist.
Conscious and responsible consumption
Although some studies indicate small benefits of moderate consumption of beer, it is essential to consider the health risks associated with its consumption. Dani emphasizes that it is essential to control the amount ingested and to avoid consumption. Opting for craft beers, generally of higher quality, if they make you drink less than cheap brands on the market, can be an alternative to lower your intake and better appreciate the experience.
For those who can’t resist a beer, the nutritionist gives some advice that will help reduce the impact of the drink:
- Consume foods high in fat and protein before drinking, as this can slow down the absorption of alcohol.
- Hydrate well before, during and after drinking beer;
- Consume beer in moderation and avoid excessive consumption;
- Intersperse with juices to reduce the amount of alcohol ingested;
- Drink slowly, allowing your liver time to metabolize the alcohol.
Hangover? know what to do
If you overdo the beer and get hungover in the morning, Dani recommends resting and staying well hydrated, as well as consuming vitamin-rich foods and water, such as pears and watermelon.
Remember: If you have questions about how alcohol can affect your health or how to eliminate it from your diet, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
