Mexican Beer: Healthy Or Not?

Mexican beer is popular in the United States due to its light flavour and shifting Latinx demographics. But is it healthy?

Beer is a source of vitamins and minerals, and some types also contain antioxidants. Drinking moderate amounts of beer may have several health benefits, such as lowering the risk of heart disease and improving blood sugar levels. Beer is also an excellent source of fibre, with one can containing less than 1 gram.

However, heavy beer consumption can lead to health problems. Drinking more than two beers per day increases the risk of developing fatty liver disease and weight gain around the waist, also known as a beer belly.

So, while Mexican beer may offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation, excessive drinking can lead to negative health consequences.

Mexican beer: a brief history

Mexican beer has a long history, dating back to the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire in the 16th century. While fermented alcoholic drinks, including corn beer, were consumed in Mexico long before the Spanish arrived, the Europeans introduced a new style of beer brewed with barley.

The first official concession to brew European-style beer in Mexico was granted to Alfonso de Herrero (or Don Alonso de Herrera) in 1543 or 1544. The exact location of Herrera's brewery is unknown, but it is thought to have been located in the south of Mexico City or in Amecameca, Mexico State. Despite facing challenges due to a lack of supplies and competition from native beverages, Herrera's brewery laid the foundation for the development of the beer industry in Mexico.

In the centuries that followed, the beer industry in Mexico experienced periods of growth and consolidation. After the Mexican War of Independence, restrictions on beer production were lifted, and the industry began to flourish. The arrival of German and Austrian immigrants in the 19th century brought new knowledge and expertise, leading to the opening of many breweries across the country.

By 1918, there were 36 brewing companies in Mexico. However, over time, the industry consolidated, and today, two corporations, Grupo Modelo and Cervecería Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma, control the majority of the Mexican beer market. These companies have introduced popular brands such as Corona, Modelo, Pacifico, Sol, and Dos Equis, which have become staples not only in Mexico but also in the international market.

While the big breweries dominate the market, there has been a recent resurgence of independent craft beer breweries in Mexico. These small-batch craft beer labels are gaining popularity, and consumers are embracing the diverse range of beers on offer.

Mexican beer: nutritional information

Mexican beer is predominantly a pale lager, a light-bodied beer with a mild taste, best served cold. It is usually sold in 325ml bottles, known as 'medias' in Mexican slang, although some brands offer larger containers of 925ml or 940ml, referred to as 'caguamas' or 'turtles', or 'ballenas' or 'whales'. Beer is widely available in Mexico and can be purchased in stores, bars and restaurants.

The most famous Mexican beer is Corona, a flagship of Grupo Modelo, one of the five beer brands in the world. It is a pale lager with 4.6% ABV. Other well-known Mexican beers include Bohemia, Dos Equis, Sol, Tecate, Carta Blanca, Negra Modelo, Pacifico, Modelo, Estrella Jalisco, and Indio.

The nutritional value of beer varies depending on the brand and type. On average, one 12-ounce can of beer contains less than 1 gram of fat, 13 grams of carbohydrates, less than 1 gram of fibre, and less than 1 gram of sugar. Beer is a good source of B vitamins, including niacin, riboflavin, folic acid, and pyridoxine, as well as minerals like magnesium and selenium. Darker beers tend to have higher levels of antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions and certain forms of cancer.

While moderate beer consumption may offer some health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease and improved blood sugar control, it is important to drink in moderation. Excessive beer consumption can lead to health issues such as addiction, reduced life expectancy, and increased risk of liver disease and weight gain.

Health benefits of drinking beer

Beer is often viewed as a drink with little nutritional value, but it does contain a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B12, potassium, calcium, thiamine, iron, and zinc. Beer also contains amino acids and antioxidants.

Light to moderate beer consumption may have several health benefits, but excessive drinking can lead to serious negative health consequences. Here are some of the potential health benefits of drinking beer in moderation:

Improved Heart Health

Several studies have found that light to moderate beer intake may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease. A review article from 2020 concluded that people who consume beer in moderate amounts have higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or "good" cholesterol, better vascular elasticity, and higher apolipoprotein A1 levels, all of which contribute to a healthier heart.

Improved Blood Sugar Control

Light to moderate alcohol intake may help improve blood sugar control, which is an issue for many people with diabetes. Several studies have found that this level of alcohol intake can reduce insulin resistance and lower the overall risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Stronger Bones

Beer contains silicon, an essential mineral for bone formation. A review published in the International Journal of Endocrinology found that moderate beer consumption increased bone density in men. Another study on postmenopausal women from South Korea showed that those who drank 2-3 times per week had higher bone density than those who did not drink.

Reduced Dementia Risk

Light to moderate alcohol intake may also be associated with a reduced risk of dementia. A review from 2019 claims that moderate beer consumption may help decrease the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.

Dental Health

A study published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology found that beer can prevent the formation and growth of bacteria on teeth, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. The study showed that even weak extracts of beer blocked the activity of bacteria and slowed their growth.

While drinking beer in moderation may have some health benefits, it is important to remember that excessive consumption can lead to negative health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, neuropsychiatric diseases, and an increased risk of risky behavior. A healthy and balanced diet, regular exercise, and moderate alcohol consumption are recommended for overall well-being.

Health risks of drinking beer

Beer is widely consumed and enjoyed by many, but it's important to remember that excessive consumption can lead to various health risks. Here are some of the key health risks associated with drinking beer:

Weight Gain and Obesity

Beer contains empty calories, and excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity. This, in turn, can increase the risk of other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

Increased Risk of Heart Disease

Excessive beer drinking can increase the risk of heart disease. While moderate alcohol consumption is sometimes associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, excessive drinking can have the opposite effect.

Liver Disease

Long-term and excessive beer consumption can lead to liver damage and increase the risk of liver disease. Alcoholic liver disease includes conditions such as fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis, which can have serious health consequences.

Alcohol Dependency

Drinking too much beer can lead to alcohol dependency or addiction. Alcohol use disorder is a serious condition that can affect an individual's physical and mental health, personal relationships, and overall quality of life.

High Blood Pressure

Consuming more than the recommended amount of beer can lead to high blood pressure or hypertension. This, in turn, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health complications.

Weakened Immune System

Excessive and long-term beer consumption can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Beer can cause gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It can also worsen existing gastrointestinal conditions and increase the risk of ulcers.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Beer is high in empty calories and provides minimal nutritional value. Excessive consumption can displace essential nutrients from the diet and interfere with the absorption of vital vitamins and minerals. This can lead to malnutrition and related health issues.

Increased Risk of Certain Cancers

Excessive and long-term alcohol consumption, including beer, has been associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and liver cancer.

Accidents and Injuries

Drinking too much beer can impair judgement, coordination, and motor skills, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, and injuries. This includes motor vehicle accidents, burns, and other mishaps.

Risky Behaviour

Excessive beer consumption can lead to risky behaviours, such as unprotected sex or sexual assault. It can also increase the likelihood of violent activities, including homicide, suicide, and sexual assault.

It is important to note that the key to minimising these health risks is moderation. The recommended limit is typically no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice, as the safe limit may vary depending on individual factors.

Mexican beer brands and their characteristics

Mexico has a rich history of brewing beer, dating back to the Spanish Conquest in the 1500s. The country is now the world's largest beer exporter, and its beers are available in over 150 countries. Most Mexican beers are unique in taste due to the use of barley, corn, and plants in the brewing process. The most popular styles of beer in Mexico are pilsners, pilsner-style lagers, Vienna-style light lagers, Vienna-style dark beers, and Munich-style dark beers.

Corona Extra

Corona is arguably Mexico's most famous beer and is the best-selling Mexican beer worldwide. It is a light, refreshing pale lager with a touch of hops and a slightly bitter taste. It is often served with a wedge of lime, and some people add a pinch of salt. Corona has an ABV of 4.4% or 4.5%, depending on the source.

Victoria

Victoria is one of the oldest beer brands in Mexico, brewed since 1865. It is a hybrid between a Pilsner and a Vienna lager, known for its slight bitterness and robust flavor. It has a strong orange blossom honey aroma and a smooth, light-to-medium body. Victoria has an ABV of 4%.

Bohemia

Bohemia is known as the oldest and most traditional of Mexico's pilsners. It offers a unique balance of cocoa-like bitterness and sweet hints of vanilla. It has an ABV of 4.7% or 5.5%, depending on the source.

Sol

Sol, which translates to "sun", is a light and refreshing golden pilsner beer with a lemony fresh finish. It is the perfect beer for a hot, sunny day and pairs well with Mexican food. Sol has an ABV of 4.5%.

Modelo Especial

Modelo Especial is a medium-bodied lager with a slightly sweet taste due to the slow-roasted black malts used in its brewing. It has an ABV of 4.4%.

Negra Modelo Especial

Negra Modelo Especial is a Munich dunkel-style lager, brewed twice as long as most other beers. It has an ABV of 5.4% and is known locally as "la crema de las cervezas" ("the cream of the crop of beers").

Pacifico

Pacifico, or Pacifico Clara, is a golden Mexican pilsner-style beer known for its crisp, light taste and hint of bitterness. It has plenty of carbonation, making it a perfect summer beer. Pacifico has an ABV of 4.5%.

Dos Equis

Dos Equis is a lager that drinks more like a pilsner. It is a golden beer with a balanced composition and a smooth, crisp finish. It has an ABV of 4.2%.

Tecate

Tecate is a Mexican golden lager and was the first Mexican beer sold in cans. It has a refreshing yet subtle taste and is often served with a lime wedge. Tecate has an ABV of 4.5%.

Indio

Indio is a Vienna-style lager with an amber hue and a light caramel malt flavor. It has just enough bitterness to balance the sweetness and is crisp and refreshing. It has an ABV of 4.1%.

Carta Blanca

Carta Blanca is a full-bodied, full-flavored Mexican lager first brewed in 1890. It has a light, refreshing, slightly sweet, and bitter taste. It has an ABV of 4.5%.

Frequently asked questions