10 Surprising Ways Drinking Beer Can Actually Improve Your Health

Minimizes The Risk Of Cancer

Xanthohumol, known more commonly as hops, is an important antioxidant found in beer. The distinct bitter taste of xanthohumol gives beer its flavour, and different beers contain different amounts of it. Xanthohumol contains properties that fight off cancer-causing enzymes in the human body. Studies show that in men, moderate beer consumption prevents a chemical reaction that can lead to prostate cancer. There is also evidence that moderate beer consumption is linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer in women. Research on the antirestenotic and chemopreventive properties of xanthohumol is currently underway at many institutions around the world as cancer rates rise. Beers with the highest level of xanthohumol are usually traditional beers, such as an Indian pale ale.

Reduces Cholesterol Levels

The human body contains two types of cholesterol: high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL). High levels of LDL cholesterol can cause plaque to build up in the arteries, causing a heart attack or stroke. HDL cholesterol scavenges the bloodstream for LDL cholesterol to remove it and send it to the liver to be reprocessed. The alcohol in beer accelerates this process and, therefore, increases HDL levels and decreases LDL levels in the body. Lower cholesterol levels also reduce the pressure placed on the heart and decrease the risk of heart disease and other conditions caused by high cholesterol.