I like “Dr. Manny” he looks like a cool guy and it seems like he really has his readers best interest at heart. I saw his most recent Fox News post and just had to comment.
In his article entitled: Surprising health benefits of beer Dr. Manny gives a great analysis of the nutritional benefits of beer. He correctly notes that beer does contain antioxidants, vitamins, and provides a large amount of energy for the volume.
He also notes that micro-brews are often healthier than mass produced beer….a point I would generally agree with.
The only caution I see with beer intake stems from two issues.
First, many individuals are gluten (wheat/grain) intolerant.
I have patients that have chronic allergies, sinusitis, eczema, Irritable bowel syndrome, migraines and fibromyalgia all triggered by consumption of grain based foods.
I know it sounds crazy but all these wide ranging conditions often have common origin.
Subtle food sensitivities can trigger a wide range of ailments, and wheat happens to cause a great deal of problems in my experience with patients. In the individuals susceptible or gluten-sensitive, even “A” beer could cause ailments to linger for weeks.
(Ever want to know if your gluten sensitive….eliminate all cereal, bread, pasta, and foods/beverages prepared from grain for 2 weeks–If you feel better, your likely gluten intolerant–avoid them further and watch your health improve)
The second cautionary tale regarding beer, not mentioned by Dr. Manny, stems from beer’s basic caloric makeup. Along with the vitamins and antioxidants, beer calories come from primarily carbohydrates (simple sugar). Dr. Manny advised to drink in moderation. I agree.
However, 1 beer weekly (or soda) upsets the insulin and blood sugar levels in a diabetic for an entire week. Routinely, I ask my diabetic patients to try eliminating the “modest” 3-4 beers a week they typically consume….never fails….their diabetic control improves dramatically. (Way more than adding any drug I can think of)
Ok, I know what your thinking…..GEEZ I can’t hear this! I like a cold brew now and then….
I understand, enjoy an occasional beer. Just keep the big picture in mind when it comes to your health. Food allergies cause more disease than people realize and excessive consumption of carbohydrates triggers a host of problems starting with weight gain and obesity. If you have high triglycerides or cholesterol and if you suffer from diabetes, use caution and consume beer rarely.
So I’ve added a bit of info that Dr. Manny left out. Don’t lose heart, in keeping with the NRG Diet concept of eating quality foods, look for dark beers and micro-brews if you decide to imbibe.
For the gluten intolerant, check out the article attached on the 5 best gluten-free beers.
Life consists not in holding good cards but in playing those you hold well.