Most people love beer, but there are some common myths associated with beer that may not be entirely accurate. From the effects it has on health to the types of beer that are available, several myths have become popular over the years. In this article, let’s debunk some of the most common beer myths and provide the facts that dispel them.
1. Beer makes you fat
One of the most common myths about beer is that it makes you fat. While it is true that some beers can contain a lot of calories and carbohydrates, the beer itself doesn’t make you fat. Studies have shown that the moderate use of beer has been linked to numerous health benefits, including a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and protection against some forms of cancer.
2. Beer is as good for your heart as wine
There is some evidence to suggest that moderate consumption of beer may have some cardiovascular benefits. Certain components in beer, such as polyphenols, may have antioxidant characteristics that lessen the risk of coronary heart disease, according to studies. In addition, beer drinking has been linked to an increase in “good” cholesterol (HDL) and a reduction in “bad” cholesterol (LDL). However, it is important to note that the research is still inconclusive and more studies are needed to further explore the potential benefits of drinking beer for heart health. At the same time, it is important to note that excessive alcohol consumption of any kind can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, moderation is key when it comes to beer consumption.
3. Beer causes a hangover
Another common myth about beer is that it will give you a hangover. This is not true, as the only thing that can give you a hangover is drinking too much. The amount of alcohol in any given beer is typically the same, so it is not the type of beer that causes a hangover. Instead, it is the amount that you drink that can lead to a hangover.
4. All beers taste the same
While it is true that all beers contain the same basic ingredients, it is not true that all beers taste the same. There are a wide variety of beers available, ranging from light lagers to dark stouts, and each has its unique flavor. Additionally, many breweries offer seasonal beers that may have different flavor profiles than their standard beers.
5. Beer is just for men
This myth is quite outdated and certainly not true. Women make up a large portion of the craft beer market, and many breweries offer beers that are specifically designed for women. Some of these beers may be lighter in color and have less alcohol content than their male-oriented counterparts.
6. Beer can only be enjoyed cold
Another common myth is that beer can only be enjoyed cold. While it is true that cold beer is often the most refreshing, some beers are best enjoyed at room temperature or even slightly warm. For example, many dark beers, such as stouts and porters, are best enjoyed at temperatures between 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Most beers should be served “reasonably” chilled, not cold. Cold beers will hide much of their flavor, especially heavy barrel-aged stouts. The darker the beer, the warmer it can be drunk – as a general rule. Between 10–15 degrees Celsius is optimum, with the lower end appropriate for lager, IPA, APA, saison, lambic, and the higher end (14–15 degrees) is suitable for stouts, strong Belgian ales, old ales, and porters.
7. Beer will make you drunk quickly
The rate at which someone gets drunk depends on many factors, such as their size, weight, gender, and how much they have eaten. Beer can take longer to make you drunk than other types of alcohol.
8. Dark beer contains more alcohol
There is a common misconception that darker beers are stronger because they contain more alcohol, but in reality, the color of a beer has nothing to do with its potency. Beer’s color and alcohol concentration are both affected by the type and quantity of grain used in the brewing process. During fermentation, the sugars in the starch (grain) are converted to alcohol, so the higher the grain content, the higher the alcohol level will be in the final product.
9. Bottled Beer is Better Than Canned Beer
There is no difference in taste between canned and bottled beer. The main factor in determining taste is the quality of the ingredients and the brewing process. Some people argue that canned beer is better because it is more protected from light and air, which can cause the beer to become skunky. However, most beer is now canned with a protective interior lining, which eliminates this issue. Ultimately, the choice between canned and bottled beer comes down to personal preference.
10. Beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, you’re in the clear
There is no evidence to support the claim that drinking beer before liquor will make you sicker than drinking liquor before beer. Drinking any type of alcohol in excess can lead to illness, regardless of the order in which it is consumed.
According to Joseph Fisher, MD, food scientist and founder of ZENO Functional Foods, feeling ill while drinking or the next day has more to do with how much alcohol you consume than with what you drank.
11. When cold beer gets warm, it gets skunked
It’s a common misconception that bringing a chilled beer to room temperature can cause it to go bad and smell skunky. Skunking has nothing to do with warmth because it is a chemical reaction generated by light interacting with a molecule found in hops. Beer bottled in clear or green glass is particularly prone to the bad flavor known as “lightstruck.”
Conclusion
These are just a few of the most common myths about beer that have been debunked. While there are certainly some truths to these myths, it is important to remember that beer can be enjoyed responsibly and in moderation. Additionally, it is important to remember that there is a wide variety of beers available, each with its unique flavor and characteristics. With this in mind, everyone can find a beer that suits their tastes.
I am a passionate beer connoisseur with a deep appreciation for the art and science of brewing. With years of experience tasting and evaluating various beers, I love to share my opinions and insights with others and I am always eager to engage in lively discussions about my favorite beverage.
