Beer has some of the same benefits as wine

Lynda Murray MA, RD, LD, CSSD

Who would have thought there would be benefits to downing a cold one? The research continues on how beer, a 1,000-year-old beverage, might be beneficial to health.

We've known for some time about how wine might be "health insurance" against heart disease, but beer now also holds this claim to fame.

What's your preference? Ales, bitter, lagers, stout or wheat beers? Research shows that one drink a day for women or up to two drinks a day for men may reduce the chance of stroke, as well as heart disease – for starters. Then a whole keg of beer benefits follows, such as reduced risk of osteoporosis, high cholesterol, blood clots, atherosclerosis, heart attacks, diabetes, dementia, Parkinson's disease and gallstones. Yes, I am referring to beer, not omega 3 fatty acids.

An average beer is cholesterol free, fat free, contains 13 grams of carbohydrates, 25 milligrams of sodium, along with trace amounts of protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins B, B2 and B6.

It has been suggested that consuming one to two beers a day can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by 30 percent to 40 percent over those who don't drink at all. Beer contains the same amount of antioxidants that red wine has and nearly five times as many antioxidants as white wine.

Alcohol is also praised for its ability to increase the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. One glass of beer a day has been shown to significantly increase HDL cholesterol levels.

Beer also helps prevent the buildup of homocysteine, an amino acid linked with heart problems.

A recent report indicates that drinking wine or liquor can result in an increase in this negative homocysteine by 10 percent, while drinking beer did not.

Alcohol has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on inflammation, blood thinning and reducing the tendency for blood to clot. Think reduced heart attack and stroke.

Beer also may be associated with lower levels of insulin resistance. Eventually, beer may prove to be as protective for keeping diabetes at bay as a glass of wine. Other lifestyle factors typically associated with wine connoisseurs – such as healthier diet, exercise, limited nicotine, higher education level and income – are the positive benefits linked to this beverage of choice. It is believed that the alcohol is responsible for the protective effect noted, and wine can't alone claim the monopoly on heart and vascular benefits seen.

Weakened bones, fragile for fractures, are common among elderly people. Studies suggest that beer might benefit bones by the increase in blood estrogen levels. It is speculated that the flavenoid content of beer or minerals such as silicon are responsible. More research is continuing.

It has been estimated that more than 4.5 million Americans suffer from dementia or cognitive mental decline. This is expected to climb as life expectancy increases. The exact mechanism is not known at this time, but theories range from reduced narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, reduced risk of diabetes and psychological benefits.

A study of 51,000 people showed the risk of developing Parkinson's disease dropped by 30 percent for those who drank beer. Other protective lifestyle factors include maintaining ideal bodyweight and consuming black tea. Depression and exposure to heavy metals could increase risk. Head trauma increased Parkinson's disease risk 4 percent to 10 percent, providing additional fuel to the "wear your helmet" argument.

Beer in cooking is believed to have its roots in Western Europe. Alcohol is unique, because it has a much lower boiling temperature than water and evaporates quickly, leaving the characteristic taste of the beer behind.

Beer can be used as meat marinades. The alcohol both tenderizes and adds flavor. It can also be used in batters for fried foods, added to gravies to spice up the taste, or used in place of water or broth in soups and stocks. Try using beer as a cooking base for steaming sausages, shellfish or clams.

Malty beers add a sweet/nutty taste, while hop lagers can add a bitter/herbal flavor. Beer increases in bitterness as it simmers, so use a sweeter beer when cooking for long periods of time.

BEER BURGERS

1 large egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (4-ounce) can diced chilies, drained
1/3 cup crushed saltine crackers
1/3 cup beer
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 pound lean ground beef
6 slices cheese
6 hamburger buns

Preheat grill.
In a large mixing bowl, combine egg, garlic, chilies, saltines, beer, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, cayenne pepper and ground beef. Mix well.
Divide beef mixture into six patties. Grill 7 to 9 minutes on each side, turning once or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
Top each burger with a slice of cheese.
Serve on buns.
Serves 6.

Remember these potential health effects are only for those who follow the moderation guidelines of one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. This doesn't mean you get to save your quota up and have seven or 14 beers on Friday night.

Drinking in excess of these guidelines has been associated with an increased risk of several serious health problems, such as cancer, high blood pressure and liver disease. Be warned that excess drinking can lead to liver damage, dangers of drunk driving and damage to fetuses of pregnant women, just to name a few.