Is Beer Unhealthy?

The main ingredient of beer that is of interest to us in this discussion is alcohol so we can say that the health effects of alcohol apply to beer.

Moderate use of alcohol is associated with a decreased risk of cardiac disease and stroke.

Moderate and increasing use of alcohol is associated with an increased risk for cancer of the mouth, pharynx, larynx and esophagus, liver, colon, rectal and breast cancer.

Moderate use is considered to be one or two beers per day for the average man and one beer a day for the average woman.

So, don't overdo it and you can reap the benefits while minimizing the risk.

By the way, you can't save up your daily allotment for the weekend!

Alcohol may cause cancer because alcohol and it's metabolic products damage cells, are carcinogens and interfere with cellular activities that prevent cancer.
 
Is beer unhealthy? I heard that it has phosphates which are bad for your bones, is this true? Are there any other aspects of beer besides over consumption of alcohol that make drinking in moderation unhealthy?
 
I hope not, I enjoy a little cold beer on occasion myself...but I am interested in your question, so I will read along with you, and see what other posters have to say, OK?
 
esker,

Thanks! Your response was well put, and the information very helpful. I have a much better understanding, and will now enjoy the occasional (1) beer, without guilt, (which makes everything taste better)...:D
 
Moderate consumption of alcohol decreases your risk for cardiovascular problems but increases your risk for cancers. If you have a family history for heart problems or stroke, you may want to have a drink every day. If you have a family history for liver and other organ cancers, then maybe not. Discuss it with your doctor is the best advice.
 
SMITHXI,

You're not dreaming...In order to brew beer, all the following minerals are needed:

Ions of sodium, calcium, potassium, nitrate/nitrites, phosphate, chloride and carbonate. There are also trace amounts of minor ions like copper, zinc, magnesium and iron.

The amount of phosphates needed in brewing are not going to damage your bones.

zuzu xxx:wave:
 
From a "staying fit" standpoint, drinking beer is definitely not helpful if you are trying to build muscle. The extra carbs and fat do not provide your muscle with building material, such as protein.
 
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