Make mine a pint

Epigram 29 November 2004 (Issue 165)
http://www.epigram.org.uk/view.php?id=234

Finally, the news that students, pub landlords and darts players across the globe have been waiting a lifetime to hear. Beer is not bad for you. In fact, it may even be good for you.

Forget stem cells, genetics and animal testing: here is some science you will definitely want to read. Beer has actually been shown to have a number of health benefits. A reduced risk of heart attacks, gallstones and late onset diabetes are all associated with moderate consumption, not to mention protection from stomach ulcers. Of particular interest to middle aged women will be the news that the high silicon content of beer may help protect bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. So why do so many people associate beer with bellies?

A quick content analysis reveals some interesting facts. Beer is rich in B vitamins, low in sugar and contains a healthy amount of protein. More importantly, a glass of beer has half as many calories as the equivalent amount of milk and less than wine and most soft drinks. Half a pint contains 95 calories, a 100g packet of peanuts contains 600, while a chicken curry with rice has around 1100. Perhaps it is time to blame the lifestyle, not the choice of beverage.

Believe it or not, schools in Belgium's Limburg province have begun experimenting with low-alcohol beer as an option at lunchtime, on the grounds that it is healthier than fizzy drinks. Children will even be given a choice between lager and bitter, both with an alcohol content below 2.5 per cent. The chairman of the scheme, Rony Langenaeken, said, "Beer is for the whole family, and this scheme will be for children between the ages of three and fifteen." Rumours that fish and chips are to be replaced with kebabs and cheeseburgers have yet to be confirmed.

Before you head down the pub to celebrate this momentous news, a word of caution must be issued. These studies refer only to moderate beer consumption. The adverse health effects of binge drinking and alcoholism are well documented. The government recommends a maximum of 3-4 units per day for men and 2-3 for women. Stick to these guidelines and beer can complement a healthy lifestyle. Just remember to buy one for your mum as well; she'll thank you for it one day.