Beer is one of the favorite drinks of Brazilians. Brazil is the third largest country in the world with the largest number of beer drinkers, behind only China and the United States. This Friday (2), International Beer Day is celebrated, but after all, is the drink that is so many people’s favorite really bad for your health?
To answer this and other questions, the CNN spoke with Fernanda Lopes, a nutritionist at Emagrecentro, a clinic specializing in weight loss and body aesthetics. The specialist shares what is really true and what is a myth about the relationship between beer and health. Check it out!
1. Beer causes belly fat
Myth . According to the nutritionist, weight gain that can lead to belly fat is more related to excess calorie consumption in the diet than specifically to beer.
“The swelling that can occur after drinking the beverage is linked to the fermentation of carbohydrates in the liquid, which causes abdominal discomfort in some people,” reveals Lopes.
2. A can of beer is equivalent to a loaf of bread
True . This is one of the most famous comparisons when it comes to beer and, according to Lopes, it makes sense. “Analyzing the calories, a can of beer (approximately 355 ml) generally contains between 150 and 200 calories, depending on the brand and type. On the other hand, a loaf of French bread contains around 130 to 150 calories. Therefore, the amount of calories in a can of beer is generally similar or slightly higher than that of a loaf of French bread,” he explains.
Therefore, it is possible to say, in terms of calories, that a can of beer and a French bread are equivalent.
3. Beer can increase cholesterol levels
It depends . Studies have shown that excessive alcohol consumption can have a negative impact on health, increasing LDL cholesterol levels (considered “bad”) and decreasing HDL cholesterol levels (considered “good”) when consumed in large quantities.
“However, the effect of beer specifically is less studied, and the impact may vary depending on the amount consumed and the individual health profile,” says Lopes.
4. Beer dehydrates
True . “The alcohol present in the drink has a diuretic effect, leading to temporary loss of fluids and potentially dehydration if there is not adequate water consumption at the same time,” explains the specialist.
As a consumption tip, Lopes points out that men can consume up to two standard doses of the drink, while for women, the recommendation is up to one dose. “In these suggestions, we take into account a slower metabolism for alcohol, with a standard dose being equivalent to approximately 350 ml of beer with an average alcohol content of around 5%,” he concludes.
5. Beer gives you heartburn
True . The nutritionist explains that beer can indeed cause heartburn in some people, especially those with a history of reflux and gastritis. “This happens due to its alcohol content and carbon dioxide, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid reflux into the esophagus,” explains Lopes.
6. Beer increases the feeling of bloating
True . Beer can increase the feeling of bloating due to its carbon dioxide content, which can cause gas to build up in the gastrointestinal tract.
“In addition, beer can contain sugars and carbohydrates that contribute to the feeling of fullness,” says the nutritionist.
7. Beer is healthier than other spirits
True . When compared to distilled beverages such as vodka and gin, beer contains less alcohol by volume and may offer some benefits by containing antioxidants and nutrients such as B vitamins and minerals, according to Lopes.
However, the specialist makes a reservation: “It is worth remembering that excessive consumption of any alcoholic beverage can be harmful to your health,” she says.
8. Drinking beer with foam (head) is better than drinking it without foam
Myth . The expert explains that beer foam, or head, is composed primarily of carbon dioxide and barley proteins. Foam can help maintain the aroma and carbonation of the beer, but it does not have a significant impact on health. Choosing between beer with or without foam is more a matter of personal consumption preference.
9. Double malt beer is healthier than regular beer
Myth . While it may have a more complex flavor profile due to the additional use of malt, double malt (or high-gravity) beer has a higher alcohol content and can have more calories than regular beer, Lopes explains. “The health impact will depend on the alcohol content and the amount consumed,” he says.
10. Light or zero-alcohol beers are healthier
Myth . “Although this type of product contains fewer calories and is useful for those who are trying to lose weight and do not want to give up drinking, it is important to clarify that it does not offer significant additional health benefits compared to traditional beers. Therefore, care must be taken with the frequency of consumption, which should be moderate, regardless of the chosen drink”, points out the nutritionist.
11. It is possible to drink beer in a healthy amount
True . This is the news that every beer lover wants to hear: it is possible to consume beer in a healthy way, as long as it is consumed in moderation and in the context of a balanced and healthy diet.
“General guidelines recommend that women consume no more than one drink per day and that men consume no more than two drinks per day, with one drink being equivalent to approximately 355 ml of beer. Moderate consumption may have some potential benefits, but alcohol abuse can lead to several health problems, including weight gain and other disorders,” Lopes points out.
Drinking on weekends may indicate compulsive alcohol consumption
Source: CNN Brasil
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