A new study suggests that the odd pint might actually be good for gut health and boost the immune system.
According to the research, beer is rich in many essential amino acids, vitamins and bioactive substances involved in regulating human physiological functions.
Researchers at Dalian Medical University in China explained how polyphenols in the malt and hops of beer are considered important active compounds that interact with the gut microbiome.
The study, published in the Nutrition and Metabolism journal, outlined how the intestinal microbiome breaks down polyphenols, fibre, and other beneficial components of beer to improve immunity.
Researchers found that consuming both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beer can positively affect the gut microbiome, such as increasing the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria.
When beer is consumed in moderation, the polyphenols and other nutrients in beer are fermented and broken down by the microbial community that resides in the outer mucosal layer of the gut.
This process produces a variety of metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Meaning, beer could aid in cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and the prevention of infections.
‘In healthy non-smokers, beer acutely improves parameters of arterial function and structure,’ said the researchers.
Previous studies have shown that moderate beer consumption helps prevent heart disease, inhibits cancer, and improves blood circulation and immune function.
Beer has also been shown to have antioxidant and anti-ageing effects, promote estrogen production and reduce radiation damage.
However, the researchers noted that like any alcoholic beverage, excessive consumption of beer can induce severe tissue damage, alcoholic liver disease and depression in patients, adolescents, and pregnant women.
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