Proof That Beer is Healthy

It's no surprise that I love wine. I was conditioned to, having studied in notable wine countries like Chile and France, and continue to explore my refined (ha) tastes in unexpected places like Central New York and Williamsburg. I do like beer too though, and I prefer it on the hottest summer days and coldest winter ones. Plus, (didn't you hear?) beer can be really healthy. The fact that Whole Foods is serving beer should be proof enough, but I'll expand further...  (1) Hops, a primary ingredient in beer, is "a significant source of cholesterol-lowering, cancer-fighting, and virus-killing compounds called polyphenols. (2) Brewer's yeast, which is added to beer bottles right before they're closed, "is a rich source of B-complex vitamins, protein, and minerals such as chromium." Furthermore, "as a probiotic organism, yeast helps your body break down nutrients, regulates your digestive system, maintains your nervous system, and even helps modulate blood-sugar levels." (3) The dark malt roasting process, used in brewing stouts, porters, and browns, fuels the formation of more than twice the amount of antioxidants found in the average lager. "What's more, 'The antioxidants in beer are better at reacting with toxic-free radicals than the ones in antioxidant vitamins pills." (4) And perhaps the most important piece of health information, discovered through personal experience as opposed to an article in Men's Health: blowing off a week of steam with three great friends is always really good for you.