10 Surprising Ways Drinking Beer Can Actually Improve Your Health

Lowers Blood Pressure

In regular, moderate amounts, beer can lower blood pressure by two to four millilitres of mercury. Excessive drinking has a negative effect on blood pressure, so moderate consumption is key. Health professionals typically consider a patient's genetic risks, age, and lifestyle before recommending regular intake of beer or another type of alcohol. Because the reduction of blood pressure associated with beer consumption is minimal, the best ways to lower blood pressure are still to lose weight through diet and exercise, limit stress, and reduce sodium intake.

Strengthens Bones

According to the National Institutes of Health, dietary silicone in beer may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a disease that affects bone density and is associated with increased fractures and breaks. Orthosilicic acid is the soluble form of dietary silicone. Only recently have the full health benefits of it been studied by scientists. A 2009 study conducted at Tufts University concluded that higher bone mineral density and moderate alcohol consumption are linked. However, people who drink more than a moderate amount of beer (1-2 beers per night) had a lower bone density. Dr. Charles Bamforth of the Food Science and Technology department at the University of California has noted that beer containing higher levels of malted barley and hops contain the most dietary silicone.