By the end of the week, we don't blame you for wanting to kick back with a cold one. Enjoying a beer not only relieves stress from your busy life, but it also offers some physical health benefits.
- It reduces risk of heart attack: A recent Swedish study showed that women who drank one or two beers a week (no more) had a 30 percent lower risk of having a heart attack as compared to heavy drinkers or those who didn't drink beer at all. That's worth ordering a bottle!
- It strengthens bones: Beer has also been shown to strengthen bones. Just be mindful that more than two beers a day can have the opposite effect. Most of us aren't thinking about osteoporosis, but if drinking a beer can decrease your chances of hip fractures later in life, your older self will thank you for popping open a can.
- It protects against diabetes: If you're worried about type 2 diabetes, moderate alcohol consumption (no more than one a day) can protect you against this disease.
- It offers antioxidants: If you've heard that Guinness is good for you, you'd be right! It contains immune-boosting antioxidants and can also improve your memory. Dark beers also offer a small dose of iron.
- It's great for recovery: Those of you who've done longer races like half or full marathons have probably been psyched if there's a beer tent waiting at the finish line. While a beer is definitely cold and refreshing when you're hot and sweaty, the alcohol can have dehydrating effects, but when formulated differently, beer can be a great post-workout recovery drink.
This of course isn't a license to inhale a six-pack. Moderate and responsible drinking should always be on your mind so you can avoid a nasty hangover. And if you're worried about weight gain, check out this list to see which beer has the fewest calories.
0 comments :
Post a Comment