Aside from sports, the communal consumption of beer has become one of the leading things that brings ordinary South Africans together.
The alcoholic beverage is consumed at almost every celebratory event, whether you host a bachelor party, at an evening braai, watching a sports game in the stands or simply drinking it to cool down on a hot summer’s day. These days it is also used as a peace treaty among enemies who put their differences aside.
According to UK beer expert – Craft Beer – the reason for this beverage becoming so popular is due to its ability to spur on camaraderie and fun, allowing people from all walks of life to enjoy one another’s company and share in good experiences.
In addition, most crafted beers contain between 4-6% of alcohol, so the chances of you getting drunk is relatively low.
However, did you know that there is in fact more to a glass of beer than we often think? Beer is proven to have various health benefits that could be advantageous to your overall well-being.
Here are some benefits to of having low to moderate limits of beer consumption:
Diabetes
Health and Wellness publication Healthline reveals that having 350ml consumption of beer is known to be extremely beneficial for people with diabetes. This is due to its ability improve blood and sugar control, which many diabetics struggle with.
“Several studies have found that light to moderate alcohol intake appears to reduce insulin resistance — a risk factor for diabetes — as well as the overall risk for developing type 2 diabetes.”
Meanwhile, the above-mentioned source warns consumers not to over indulge in binge drinking as it may counter these benefits and increase the risk of diabetes.
Boosts bone health
The regular consumption of beer has a positive influence on the development of ine’s bone health. According to Seven Degrees – a well-known beer and wine seller, also specialising in the research of alcoholic beverages – one of the few dietary sources for silicon is found in beer. This is considered to be extremely important for the growth and development of bones and its connective tissue
“One study showed that moderate drinkers were 38% less likely to have osteoporosis compared to non-drinkers, while another revealed that moderate drinkers were 20% less likely to fracture their hip,” explains the above-mention company.
Heart disease
Expert medical publication, Medical News Today, reveals that a recent study done in 2020 has shown that people who consume beer in moderate amounts “have higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol — or “good” cholesterol, better vascular elasticity, and higher apolipoprotein A1 levels.”
Meanwhile, the publication does caution consumers not drink excessively as it may cause kidney failure, weight gain, and pancreatic disease.
Also see: 5 Uncommon uses for beer
