Good for What Ales You

By Nora Heston Tarte

Throwing back a brewski may not sound like the healthy diet your doctor is pushing, but researchers are coming up with some solid evidence that beer drinking (in moderation) is good for your health. Next time someone comments on your beverage of choice, shoot off one of these facts about the healing properties of beer and watch their mouth drop, then promptly shut, mid-lecture.

  • Moderate Beer drinkers have a 42 percent lower risk of heart disease when compared to non-drinkers.
  • Beer boosts creative thinking and can help drinkers solve puzzles. Bar trivia anyone?
  • Beer contains anticancer properties linked to a particular flavonoid compound called xanthohumol found in hops.
  • It lowers both blood pressure and the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
  • Every daily drink downed reduces the risk of developing kidney stones by 40 percent.
  • Drinking beer after a workout hydrates you.
  • A daily brew increases antioxidant activity that affects eye health.
  • Drinking beer increases bone density so you may be less likely to suffer a fracture or develop osteoporosis.
  • Thanks to vitamin B12 and folic acid in beer, throwing one back can help prevent anemia.
  • Got a stomach ache? Beer stimulates enzymes and aids with digestion.
  • The humulone compound in hops helps fight the common cold virus.