Way back in Issue 9 of Beer & Brewer magazine we busted the myth of the beer belly. That’s right, beer alone is not making anyone fat, anymore so that wine would give you a “wine-belly”.
Now, there is even more science to back it up, with a new study suggesting that beer has nutritional and well-being benefits that are similar to those currently being touted for red wine.
The report is called Beer & calories; a scientific
review, and was produced for the British Beer and Pub
Association. The aim was to see if beer was more responsible for weight gain than other alcoholic beverages, like wine.
A statement released by the Brewers Association of Australia and New Zealand, confirms that the report does not shy away from the fact that excessive alcohol consumption causes increased mortality and morbidity, but instead argues that current science supports the idea that moderate consumption of beer
can be associated with health benefits.
The key word being moderate.
The trick is apparently to count beer (or any beverage other than water) in one’s daily calorie intake. Which, for those who are interested, is 43
calories per 100mL of 5.0% ABV Lager (compared to 84
calories per 100mL 12.0% ABV white wine). NB: the higher the alcohol content, the higher the calories.
The report also notes that beer contains vitamins, fibre, antioxidants, and minerals such as
silicon which may help to lower the risk of osteoporosis. Hops also have health benefits (but you will potentially receive alcohol poisoning before experiencing any of them).
Unfortunately, the Brewers Association does not recommend rushing out to drink a large quantity of beer (as the harmful side effects would outweigh the good), however, a moderate amount of beer should benefit your lifestyle.