You’ve probably heard the term ‘beer belly’. We have, and we think it gets a bad rep. Turns out, we’re not wrong.
There are, in fact, a host of health benefits when it comes to our favourite tipple. Research has shown that moderate consumption of beer can actually improve your health – from strengthening your bones to reducing your risk of heart disease.
Here are six surprising health benefits of beer…
1. Strengthens bones
Studies have found that beer drinkers have increased bone density and are less likely to suffer from osteoporosis. This is because beer contains dietary silicone, which supports bone health and development.
2. Various nutrients
These depend on the individual beer, but as they are typically made with wholegrains, fruits and spices, this means you’ll be consuming soluble fibre, iron, potassium and magnesium.
3. Increases good cholesterol
Drinking beer can lead to higher levels of ‘good cholesterol’ (also known as high-density lipoprotein), which helps to remove bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and plaque build-up in the arteries.
4. Reduces risk of kidney stones
Water is an important defence of kidney stones, and as beer is typically over 90% water, it can actually help prevent kidney stones by up to 40%!
5. It’s a stress buster
Tasting a beer can increase the amount of dopamine in your brain, leaving you feeling less stressed, calmer and more relaxed. Some studies have even suggested that drinking beer can lower your risk of dementia.
6. Reduces your risk of heart disease
It does this by lowering inflammation in the body, thinning the blood and reducing clots which can block your coronary arteries. Dark ales and stouts are especially effective.
Well, if these six reasons aren’t the perfect excuse for a pint, we don’t know what is!
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