Beer Drinking: When To Stop And When To Pour

Deciding whether to have another drink can be a difficult question. While drinking in moderation is often a harmless social activity, it can be challenging to recognise when drinking has become a problem. It's important to be aware of the signs that you may need to cut back on drinking, such as increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and neglecting hobbies and social activities. If you're concerned about your drinking, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor, who can help you decide whether it's best to cut back or abstain.

Beer has health benefits

Beer has been important in human culture for thousands of years. While it is associated with a "beer gut" and weight gain, drinking beer in moderation can have several health benefits. Here are some reasons why you may want to drink another beer:

Nutrient-Rich

Beer is more than just a beverage; it is referred to as liquid bread for a reason. It is a good source of protein, B vitamins, phosphorus, folate, niacin, fiber, and silicon. These nutrients contribute to your daily nutrient intake and offer various health benefits.

Lower Risk of Diabetes

According to a study published in the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, drinking beer 3 to 4 times a week lowered the risk of developing diabetes. The study also found that men who drank between one and six beers per week had a 21% lower risk of diabetes compared to non-beer drinkers.

Heart Health

Beer, like wine, can help lower your risk of heart disease and improve your cardiovascular health. Research suggests that drinking one to two beers a day may help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve "good" cholesterol levels. Additionally, men who drank beer moderately after suffering a heart attack were 42% less likely to die of heart disease.

Stronger Bones

Moderate beer consumption may help increase bone density and strengthen bones, especially in men and postmenopausal women. This benefit is likely due to the presence of silicon, an essential mineral for bone formation, found in beer.

Brain Health

The silicon in beer may also help protect your brain from compounds associated with cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia. Beer can also raise good cholesterol, improving blood flow to the brain. Additionally, a study found that people with a slight beer buzz solved puzzles faster, suggesting improved brain function.

Oral Health

Believe it or not, beer can also contribute to better oral health. A study published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology found that beer can prevent the formation and growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. The antioxidants and hops in beer have antibacterial properties, inhibiting the activity and growth of harmful bacteria.

Reduced Inflammation

The hops in beer have anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research found that consuming hops in beer form interfered with compounds that cause inflammation in the body. This can help reduce the risk of various diseases associated with inflammation.

Longevity

Moderate beer consumption may also contribute to a longer life. Research suggests that people who drink moderately tend to live longer than those who abstain. However, heavy drinking can negatively impact health and reduce life expectancy, so moderation is key.

Beer is all-natural

Beer is one of the oldest drinks in the world, dating back to ancient times. Natural beer is brewed with just three ingredients: malt, water, and hops. While yeast is also present in the beer-making process, it is not typically considered an ingredient. Beer is therefore a very natural drink, and its production has changed very little over the centuries.

The ancient Egyptians, for example, were known to brew beer using similar methods to those used today. In ancient times, beer was often produced by labourers and peasants who needed to quench their thirst while working in the fields. They would collect old bread or leftover cereals from the harvest to produce beer. Today, beer-makers pay homage to this tradition by experimenting with different varieties of cereals and playing with flavours, colours, textures, and aromas.

In modern times, beer is typically made with a blend of hops, malt, and water. Some beers, like Budweiser and Heineken, also include rice or corn. The specific ingredients used can depend on factors such as territory, tradition, cost, and the availability of raw materials.

In recent years, there has been a growing consumer interest in natural beer. This trend is reflected in the increasing number of craft breweries and the demand for more transparent practices in the beer industry. Some breweries, like Casa Veccia Microbrewery in Italy, are creating unique beers that tell a story and connect with local traditions. Others are focusing on removing additives and artificial ingredients from their beers.

So, is beer all-natural? The answer is a little complicated. While the basic ingredients of beer are natural, some modern brewing practices and additives may not be considered natural. However, the trend towards more natural and transparent beer-making practices is encouraging, and it seems that consumers are increasingly interested in knowing what they are drinking and seeking out quality, natural beers.

Beer is low in calories

Beer often gets a bad reputation for being high in calories, but this isn't always the case. Many beers are low in calories and can be a great alternative to higher-calorie drinks like cocktails and wine. The number of calories in beer largely depends on its alcohol content, with one gram of alcohol containing about seven calories.

Low-calorie beers are typically produced by reducing the number of carbohydrates that come from malt and grains. The alcohol content is also usually lowered. However, it's important to be mindful of the overall carbohydrate content and added sugars when selecting a low-calorie beer, especially in flavoured varieties.

Some of the lowest-calorie beers include Skinny Brands Beer, with 87 calories per bottle for lager and 89 calories per can for IPA, and Coors Light, with 102 calories per 350ml serving. Bud Light is also a well-known low-calorie option, with only 110 calories per serving.

Even some darker beers, like Guinness, can be relatively low in calories. A 350ml serving of Guinness Draught contains 126 calories, which is comparable to many lighter beers.

So, if you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy a beer, there are plenty of low-calorie options to choose from.

Beer is a social lubricant

Beer is often referred to as a social lubricant. Alcohol, in moderate amounts, can boost emotions and enhance social bonding in a group setting. It can also reduce negative emotions and make people more willing to open up to others. For people with social anxiety, alcohol can act as a crutch in social situations.

However, the belief that alcohol deepens social connections is an illusion. While alcohol helps people talk, it doesn't help them listen. Real connection is about give and take, and people want to feel understood, not just listened to. Alcohol can make it harder to focus and think, and subtle cues may be missed. If both parties are drinking, they may end up simply talking at each other, rather than having a meaningful conversation.

Additionally, alcohol can make people less inhibited and more likely to say something they may regret later. It can also negatively impact empathy and increase aggression, potentially leading to disputes or violence.

Therefore, while beer may initially act as a social lubricant, it is important to be mindful of its potential negative effects on social interactions.

Beer can improve your mood

Beer is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in various settings, from social gatherings to quiet nights at home. One of the key reasons people reach for another beer is its ability to enhance their mood and emotional state.

A Social Lubricant

Beer has a long history of bringing people together and fostering connections. It serves as a social lubricant, helping to ease tension and creating a more relaxed atmosphere. This can be especially beneficial for those who feel shy or anxious in social situations, as a beer or two can help lower inhibitions and make it easier to interact with others.

Relaxation and Stress Relief

Beer is often associated with relaxation and stress relief. Studies have shown that red wine and beer are the most effective drinks for helping people unwind, with almost 50% of respondents in one study indicating that beer helped them to relax. The act of sharing a beer with friends or loved ones can contribute to this sense of relaxation and camaraderie.

A Boost of Happiness

Beer's ability to enhance mood is linked to its impact on our brain chemistry. Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that increases the production of dopamine, often referred to as the 'happy hormone.' The initial boost of dopamine when drinking beer can lead to feelings of happiness and pleasure, which is why people often reach for another drink to prolong this positive effect.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, beer plays a significant role in social rituals and traditions. Whether it's toasting with a cold beer at a barbecue or enjoying a craft beer at a local brewery, beer can evoke a sense of community and shared experience. These positive associations can contribute to the feel-good factor that comes with drinking beer.

Enhancing Flavour and Experience

The complex flavours and aromas of beer can also contribute to an enhanced drinking experience. Taking the time to savour the taste, smell, and appearance of a well-crafted beer can heighten the enjoyment and create a deeper connection to the beverage. This mindful approach to drinking can lead to a more positive overall experience.

While beer can improve your mood in the short term, it's important to remember that excessive drinking can lead to negative consequences. Drinking in moderation and being mindful of your consumption are key to maintaining a positive relationship with beer and avoiding potential health risks associated with excessive alcohol intake.

Frequently asked questions