Beer is brewed from starch which, with the help of brewer’s yeast, is saccharified into a sugary liquid. This liquid is then fermented and flavored with hops or other additives to create the final product. Depending on the ingredients used, different types of beer contain varying carbohydrate, fat, and protein content – check the calorie counter for each beer to determine its nutritional value.
Nutrient Content
The calorie calculator for most beers will show that this type of alcoholic beverage consists largely of carbohydrate. This is not to say that beer does not contain any vitamins or minerals, however. In fact, Some types of beer contain significant quantities of B vitamins as well as minerals including selenium, magnesium and potassium. On the other hand, some sources suggest that much of the nutritional value of some types of beer is lost during filtration.
Glycemic Index
Given the fact that beer is brewed from various forms of starch and grain, the calorie counter for this beverage shows that beer contains a significant amount of carbs in comparison to fats and protein. The high amount of carbs in beer contributes to its glycemic index and it is this factor which has been linked to the “beer belly” that often results from overconsumption of this beverage. Drinking beer in moderation, however, is less likely to cause a problem.
When it comes to the health effects of beer, you are more likely to hear about the negative consequences of overconsumption than the health benefits beer has to offer.
Risk for Cardiac Disease
Many studies have shown that the moderate consumption of alcohol can help to reduce your risk for cardiac disease as well as for stroke and various forms of cognitive decline. This is not to say that drinking beer with every meal is healthy, but enjoying the occasional beer could have a positive impact on your cardiac and cognitive health. Nonalcoholic beer has also been shown to mirror these cardiovascular benefits.
Reduced Risk for Diabetes
A study conducted by Dutch researchers revealed that men that weren’t heavy drinkers who began consuming beer in moderation had a significantly lower risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes over a 4-year period. In men who already imbibed regularly, however, increased alcohol consumption did not have this effect. The takeaway, then, is to enjoy beer in moderation in order to receive its health benefits.
