As most people know, the health benefits of moderate red wine drinking have been extensively studied. However, some recent studies on beer suggest that it may be as healthy as wine. Once again, the caveat ‘if consumed in moderation’ applies.

Of course, both beer and wine contain alcohol, and there is good evidence showing beneficial effects from that alone. Moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with higher levels of ‘good’, or HDL, cholesterol. Drinkers also had lower levels of fibrinogen, a protein that promotes blood clots that can lead to stroke and thrombosis.

Alcohol also lowers insulin levels, which aids in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.

Overall, several studies (like one undertaken at the Institute of Epidemiology at the University of Muenster), suggest moderate drinking of beer helps reduce the risk of coronary disease.

But the benefits appear to be derived from more than just the alcohol. A Dutch study from the TNO Nutrition and Food Research Institute found a 30% increase in vitamin B6 among beer drinkers, double the increase present in red wine and gin drinkers.

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