Beer is an alcoholic beverage. It is often called “liquid bread” because it contains barley malt and yeast. Surprisingly, many companies market beer as a healthy drink that contains beneficial nutrients like phytosterols. Phytosterols, which are chemical compounds found in plants, bind to cholesterol and work to remove it from the body. Some phytosterols (also known as plant sterols) can be added to food and drinks to lower cholesterol. The answer to the question “Can beer lower cholesterol?” does not exist. Some beers contain sterols like sitosterol or ergosterol. The amount of sterols in beer is insufficient to impact cholesterol levels significantly.
Beer and Cholesterol – An Overview
The body produces most cholesterol; food is the source of the rest. Your doctor will talk about three components of your cholesterol: HDL and LDL. The sum of HDL, LDL, and triglycerides is called total cholesterol.
Although a good beer can make you feel better, there may be better options if your triglyceride levels are controlled. Beer contains alcohol and carbohydrates, which can increase triglycerides quickly, leading to a drop in HDL cholesterol. A high level of triglyceride may increase total cholesterol. One must maintain a triglyceride concentration below 150 mg/dL.
Beer and Cholesterol – What Research Says
There is not much research on the effects of beer consumption on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The types and brands of beer used in studies on the impact of alcohol on cholesterol, triglycerides, and heart health are not usually specified. It is, therefore, unknown how beer affects lipid levels.
Animal studies showed that moderate beer intake could lower cholesterol levels in the liver and reduce cholesterol accumulation in the heart. Researchers also suggested that beer may have unidentified elements that influence the processing of lipoproteins. It may also reduce the risk of developing cardiac problems. The same components of the mechanism of action and their tools remain unknown.
A study from Penn State University found moderate beer consumption could help maintain healthy HDL cholesterol levels. The study found that excessive consuming three to five beers daily can cause harmful cholesterol levels to rise.
The HealthifyMe Note
Researchers often focus on phytosterols, which are plant components made from barley, when assessing the effects of beer on cholesterol. Beer can also contain other ingredients that could be harmful to cholesterol management. Beer consumption can have an impact on triglyceride levels. Higher levels of triglyceride can lead to a decrease in HDL cholesterol. Also, beers can cause weight gain.
Beer: Is it Good for Cholesterol?
There is no evidence that beer consumption can reduce cholesterol. A spike in cholesterol can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Moderate alcohol consumption, including average beer consumption, can have potential benefits for your heart health.
Moderation is vital to minimize adverse effects on cholesterol levels and maintain good health. Experts recommend that healthy adults limit their intake to one drink per day for females and two for men. It is important to remember that the benefits of alcohol can vary depending on what type it is. It also depends on the individual’s lifestyle and overall diet.
The HealthifyMe Note
It is not recommended to drink beer to lower your cholesterol. You should always consult your doctor about alcohol consumption. A HealthifyMe nutritionist can help you determine how beer consumption may impact your health. They can advise you on the safe amount of alcohol to consume.
Tips to Stop the Need to Drink Beer or Alcohol
Many strategies can be used to avoid the urge for alcohol or beer. Here are some suggestions:
Keep healthy snacks on hand.
Keep healthy snacks in your fridge and pantry to avoid reaching for an alcoholic drink when you feel hungry. You can stock your pantry and fridge with whole-grain crackers, fruits, nuts, and cut-up vegetables.
Get plenty of
water
A healthy lifestyle can reduce the desire to drink alcohol. Take a water bottle to the office and drink throughout the day.
You can also relax in other ways.
Instead of relying on alcohol for relaxation, try other stress-relieving activities such as walking, breathing exercises, and enjoying a favorite pastime.
Identify Triggers
Identify the emotions or circumstances that trigger your desire for alcohol. Do you feel the need for alcohol after a long day at work? Are you feeling anxious or nervous? You can then find other ways to deal with these emotions or situations that don’t involve alcohol once you have identified your triggers.
Plan Ahead
Be prepared to drink alcohol before going to any party or social event with alcohol. You can bring a non-alcoholic beverage or promise to limit your consumption.
Other Activities
Find activities you love that don’t involve alcohol. This could include hobbies, exercising, time with friends, or trying out new things.
Set goals
Setting goals can help you stay on track to reduce alcohol consumption. You have the option to set short-term and long-term goals. You can set short-term goals such as abstaining from drinking for one week or month. Long-term goals include reducing alcohol consumption over several months or even a year.
Conclusion
A general recommendation is to limit your beer intake to one glass per person (for women) or two for men (for men). To protect your heart health and avoid addiction, it is best to stop drinking beer altogether.
A moderate beer intake can positively impact lipids, LDL oxidation, and other factors. However, drinking three to five beers daily can severely affect your weight, lipids, heart health, and overall health. You are also at greater risk for developing stroke, high blood pressure, and cancer.
