Non-alcoholic beer has become increasingly popular over the last few years as more and more people are looking for low-alcohol and alcohol-free drinks to enjoy.
It’s an excellent option for people seeking a healthier lifestyle and wanting to moderate their alcohol consumption.
To begin, knowing what is actually in non-alcoholic beer is essential. Just because it doesn’t have any alcohol doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have other substances.
A non-alcoholic beer is a type of beer that has been brewed to contain little to no alcohol, typically less than 0.5% alcohol by volume.
It is designed to mimic the flavor and appearance of traditional beer, allowing individuals to enjoy the beer experience without the intoxicating effects of alcohol.
The major ingredient in non-alcoholic beer is water. Then there’s a mix of other elements such as barley, wheat, yeast, hops, and enzymes.
There are also minor trace ingredients that help make up the flavors, which are often taken from extracts, essences, or malted grains.
Examples of non-alcoholic beers in Nigeria include Heineken 0.0, Orijin Zero, Becks Blue, Bavaria, and Desperados Virgin 0.0%.
However, many people don’t know the health benefits of drinking non-alcoholic beer and some potential risks.
10 Health Benefits of Non-Alcohol Beer
Below we will cover some of the significant health effects of non-alcoholic beer and why you should consider drinking them.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that while non-alcoholic beer can have some health benefits, there is still debate about whether it’s good for your health overall.
However, some key positives are associated with drinking non-alcoholic beer that is worth considering.
1. Lowers alcohol risk
Since non-alcoholic beer does not contain any alcohol, it is associated with a lower risk of the many adverse effects of alcohol.
This includes motor vehicle crashes, violence, poor decision-making, cirrhosis, stroke, and breast cancer.
2. Improves overall health
Non-alcoholic beer can be a great source of essential vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, and folate.
These play important roles in our overall health and can help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
In addition, non-alcoholic beer can be a good way to remain hydrated and studies have shown that it can have similar levels of hydration as water.
Drinking non-alcoholic beer before exercise may also improve performance.
The body can rehydrate better when there is less alcohol present.
3. Fewer calories
Non-alcoholic beer has fewer calories than regular beer and, therefore, can be a great way to enjoy beer’s flavor without all the added sugar.
Plus, many of the beers available in supermarkets today are gluten-free and vegan, so it’s perfect for those with allergies or special diets.
4. Enhances gut health
Another interesting health benefit of non-alcoholic beer is that it might improve gut health.
Non-alcohol beer is full of probiotics which are great for gut health and can help boost the immune system.
Additionally, it contains prebiotics, which can help maintain healthy bacteria levels in the gut.
5. May boost skin health
Non-alcoholic beer might also be beneficial for skin health. Beer is high in Vitamin B, which helps protect your skin from sun damage.
Furthermore, alcohol is a diuretic that encourages the kidneys to release extra water from the body, leading to dehydration and loss of vitamins.
This can result in dry skin and the creation of toxins that can be harmful to the body. Non-alcoholic beer is a good alternative to remain hydrated and boost skin health.
6. Reduces cancer risk
Non-alcoholic beer has been found to reduce the risk of cancer.
Research has shown that compounds in beer have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against cancer-causing free radicals.
7. May be good for liver health
Drinking non-alcoholic beer in moderation can help improve liver health.
Non-alcoholic beer can reduce inflammation of the liver and may also reduce the risk of cirrhosis.
8. Improves brain function
Non-alcoholic beer contains xanthohumol, which has been linked to improved brain function.
This component of hops, in combination with other substances in beer, can help protect against the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
9. Could help with weight management
Drinking non-alcoholic beer can help you to maintain a healthy weight, as it is typically low in calories.
Its low-calorie state makes it a perfect drink for anyone who wants to lose weight. However, it must be taken in moderation.
10. Promotes stress relief
There’s something about enjoying a beer that helps us to relax and take a break from the stresses of everyday life. And the same could be true for non-alcoholic beer.
Research shows that moderate consumption of non-alcoholic beer can reduce stress levels and even better quality sleep.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, some health benefits are associated with drinking non-alcoholic beer in moderation, such as increased essential vitamins and minerals, lower calories, improved skin health, and decreased risk of cancer, liver problems, and stress. However, as with all alcoholic beverages, moderation is the key.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
