Beer is portion-controlled

Unlike mixed drinks and heavy-handed pours of wine, beer comes in a ready to drink container. Knowing that each can or bottle has an average minimum calorie count of 100 per serving can help keep you honest about how much you’re sipping.

Savvy beer drinks drinkers also know to keep an eye on the percent alcohol by volume (% APV) the higher it is, the more calories in your brew.

Beer is filled with antioxidants

Thanks to staple ingredients like barley and hops, beer boasts a plethora of cell-protecting antioxidants. Since each beer recipe is different, your brew of choice may also be made with various fruits, herbs and spices, all of which can bring more antioxidants to the party.

Beer can be heart-healthy

There’s ample research to support that moderate alcohol consumption (that’s one 12-fluid ounce drink per day for women and two for men) can have a positive impact on heart health. This certainly doesn’t warrant an initiative to drink EVERY day of the week, but it can make you feel a little better about hitting up happy hour or kicking back after a long day with a cold one.

Beer is rich in nutrients

Beer contains a long list of nutrients including soluble fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. While the amount of nutrients offered can’t take the place of healthy foods (nice try!), it does set beer apart from other alcoholic beverages.

Beer is tasty!

Let’s not forget about importance of a healthy relationship with all types of food and drinks. Beer can fit into a healthy lifestyle as long as you’re responsible about drinking it.

Related Links:

Stout and Chocolate — A Match Made in Cake Heaven

Why Beer Belongs in Your Food, Not Just Your Glass

The New World of Sodas

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition.

*This article was written and/or reviewed by an independent registered dietitian nutritionist.