13-year study shows the protective effect of beer on Longevity

When it comes to enjoying a cold beer, many might question its health benefits. However, recent studies suggest that moderate beer consumption can offer several health advantages. It’s important to emphasize that these benefits are linked to moderate drinking and not heavy or frequent consumption.

This article reviews a meta-analysis published in the international, peer-reviewed journal ‘Nutrients,’ conducted by a team of nutrition and food science researchers from Spain.

They examined studies from 2007 to 2020, exploring the effects of mostly alcoholic beverages on people’s health. Interestingly, some studies suggested that the naturally occurring nutrients in beer, not just the alcohol, contribute to these health benefits.

1. Cardiovascular Health

One of the significant findings from the researchers is the positive impact of moderate beer consumption on cardiovascular health. Five out of six studies reviewed indicated “a protective effect of moderate alcohol drinking on cardiovascular disease.” This benefit was observed in individuals who consumed up to 13.5 ounces of beer per week compared to abstainers and occasional drinkers.

Additionally, men who abstained from drinking had a significantly higher risk of developing abnormal glucose regulation than those who drank beer occasionally, suggesting that occasional beer consumption might offer some protection against diabetes in men.

2. Bone Health

Beer consumption also appears to have benefits for bone health. The researchers found that “very low levels of consumption were associated with a decreased fracture risk” among older individuals. They noted that the non-alcoholic components of beer, such as phytoestrogens, might work synergistically with silicon to stimulate osteoblast cells, which improve bone structure and aid in natural bone and tooth repair.

This finding is crucial considering that sarcopenia, a condition associated with bone and muscle loss, results in 27,000 deaths annually in the USA. Improving bone health can significantly impact longevity and reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.

3. Cholesterol Management

Moderate beer consumption may also promote better cholesterol levels. The researchers highlighted studies suggesting that beer helps increase ‘good cholesterol’ (HDL) and regulates the body’s processing of ‘bad cholesterol’ (LDL). This effect is largely attributed to the antioxidants found in well-brewed beer. Although this benefit was noted with very small amounts of beer (between half an ounce and an ounce per day), it’s reassuring to know that even minimal consumption can contribute positively.

4. Diabetes Protection

The meta-analysis revealed that men who abstained from alcohol had a higher risk of developing abnormal glucose regulation compared to occasional beer drinkers. This suggests that moderate beer consumption could have a protective effect against diabetes, specifically in men. It’s another reason why beer, in moderation, can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

While the findings from this meta-analysis are promising, it’s essential to remember that moderation is key. The researchers recommend that women should limit themselves to one drink per day and men to two drinks per day to maximize health benefits and minimize risks. Moreover, the benefits discussed are not just due to the alcohol content but also the naturally occurring nutrients in beer. This is good news for those who prefer non-alcoholic beer options.

Enjoying beer responsibly can offer several health benefits, from improving cardiovascular health and bone density to promoting good cholesterol levels and protecting against diabetes. As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional about your drinking habits and health goals.

Lipid Caveat

The terms “good cholesterol” (HDL) and “bad cholesterol” (LDL) are now generally considered outdated and possibly misleading. This is because both types of cholesterol play complex roles in the body that cannot be simply categorized as “good” or “bad.” HDL, while generally protective, can sometimes become dysfunctional and contribute to inflammation.

Conversely, LDL is essential for transporting cholesterol to cells but can be harmful when oxidized. Moreover, the focus on LDL and HDL levels alone doesn’t capture the full picture of cardiovascular risk, which involves various factors like particle size and number, and the presence of other lipoproteins​.