One popular way to relax after a long day is by enjoying a cold beer. While we’ve previously looked at the health effects of regular wine and alcohol intake, beer deserves its own discussion. After all, humans have been consuming beer in various forms since the Stone Age; it can’t be entirely bad for us, can it?
Some studies indicate that moderate beer consumption might actually support heart health by boosting good cholesterol levels, according to Destini Moody, a registered dietitian and founder of The Athlete’s Dietitian. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two for men.
However, here’s the catch: consuming more than the moderate amount can quickly negate any benefits and lead to serious health risks, such as cancer, weight gain, and liver disease. An advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General last year pointed out that alcohol is a leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., accounting for nearly 100,000 cancer cases annually.
So, does that mean it’s okay to enjoy a beer every night with dinner? Experts weigh in.
Is It Healthy To Drink A Beer Every Day?
Regular beer drinking can fit a balanced lifestyle, but moderation is crucial, says dietitian René Ficek. “Drinking beer in moderation can be part of a healthy diet, but daily consumption might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions or medications that could interact with alcohol,” she elaborates.
Moody, on the other hand, hesitates to label daily beer drinking as “healthy.” While there’s research suggesting some benefits to moderate consumption, it’s hard to classify alcohol as a genuinely healthy habit since it lacks nutritional value.
Does Beer Have Any Health Benefits?
Certain beers, particularly darker ales and stouts, could provide some advantages, according to Ficek. This is largely due to antioxidants like polyphenols from hops and grains, which may aid in preventing heart disease. Furthermore, beer contains small amounts of B vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and potassium.
What Are The Health Concerns Associated With A Daily Beer?
Drinking any form of alcohol daily presents real risks. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, even less than one drink weekly increases alcohol-related cancer risks—16.5% for women and 10% for men.
Even moderate beer consumption may raise the risk of certain cancers, high blood pressure, and weight gain due to extra calories. Daily drinking may also disrupt sleep and lead to dehydration, especially if one isn’t consuming enough water.
If cutting back is a challenge, alcohol dependence could become a concern, as highlighted by the Mayo Clinic.
What Types of Beer Are The “Healthiest?”
Opting for beers with lower alcohol levels and less added sugar is generally a better choice, according to Ficek. Light beers, which often contain fewer calories and less alcohol, may mitigate some negative effects. Additionally, beers made with natural ingredients might be slightly healthier options.
Some craft beers, especially certain ales and stouts, can offer higher levels of polyphenols and some antioxidant benefits. But Moody cautions that most studies on the benefits of alcohol have focused on drinks with 5% ABV or lower, and many beers exceed that threshold.
“Given the harmful effects of high alcohol consumption on the body’s systems, it stands to reason that beers with lower alcohol content are less detrimental than stronger options,” she notes.
Are There Any Benefits To Drinking Beer After Exercising?
While some marathon runners might enjoy a beer post-race, is there any genuine advantage to drinking beer after working out?
Ficek emphasizes that post-exercise, the priority should be hydration, replenishment of electrolytes, and consuming proteins and carbohydrates to aid recovery. “A cold beer may be tempting, but it’s not the ideal recovery option,” she explains, as beer can act as a diuretic, risking dehydration.
In moderation, a beer after a workout might provide a small amount of carbohydrates and some antioxidants, but it shouldn’t replace adequate hydration or a balanced recovery meal.
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