For all the beer lovers out there…! This post can make you love your beer more than ever.
Beer is the most popular drink consumed all around the globe. It not only offers a refreshing taste but a myriad of health benefits are also associated with the drink. In comparison, hard liquor like whiskey, vodka, or rum contains high amounts of alcohol and can leave you feeling like you are sitting on a spinning chair or, even worse, an alcohol blackout.
Beer dominates American culture. According to a report by Jan Conway, “In 2021, the United States was the second largest country in beer production”.
So, whether you’re hanging out with friends or searching for an alcoholic drink to refresh yourself after the day’s hard work, a can of beer sounds just perfect. Beer is more of a fun, casual beverage, whereas hard liquors like tequila, gin, or brandy are best suited for occasions.
Beer taken in moderate amounts will result in significant health benefits. However, hard liquor consumption can have adverse effects on your health. If you’re confused in deciding which drink is best, keep reading this article to know how beer helps keep you fit and healthy for a long time.
Why do People Drink Beer instead of Hard Liquor?
Most people prefer beer over hard liquor. The main reason is the low amount of Alcohol by Volume (ABV). Most hard liquors are 40-50% alcohol, whereas a can of beer (12 oz) contains only 4.4% of alcohol. So, with beers, it can take a few cans to get you drunk.
Beer is made from malted grains, hops, yeast, and water. This carbonated drink has a lot to offer. Most people are concerned about their carbohydrate intake while sipping a can of beer. But a cocktail contains double the amount of carbs than a beer. So, if you’re worried about a pot belly, don’t! If you love drinking beer, avoid eating excess sugar or processed foods. This will help you to stay fit and healthy while enjoying your favorite drink.
Hard liquors with high ABV can cause serious damage like heart stroke, certain types of cancers (breast, mouth, liver, voice box, colon, and rectum), high blood pressure, poor memory, and digestive problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has suggested,” Alcohol consumption for women should be limited to 1 drink or less and 2 drinks or less for men per day.”
In comparison, drinking beer in moderate amounts is highly beneficial for you. Research by S.Sohrabvandi and A.M. Mortazavian, and K. Rezaei explains this concept in detail. Let’s dive in to see how healthy you can get by drinking beer moderately every day.
- It is rich in antioxidants called phenols, which help improve heart health and reduce the chances of heart stroke and clogging of arteries.
- An antioxidant named Xanthohumol, present in beer reduces the risk of cancers.
- Lowers blood pressure.
- Beer contains 93% water which helps flush out harmful toxins from the body and prevents kidney stones.
- The fibers present in barley (used in brewing beer) help control your cholesterol levels.
- Saves you from diseases like premature aging of the brain, poor memory, lack of concentration, and type 2 diabetes.
Is it better to drink liquor instead of beer?
It all comes down to personal preference when choosing a glass of whiskey or a bottle of beer. Everybody has different taste buds. People who love getting drunk quickly prefer hard liquor. Hard liquor like whisky or brandy can be drunk on special occasions or when you’re in the mood to get an extra buzz with smaller shots.
Calories in both drinks are minimal, but ABV differs significantly. That’s why a glass of rum or a shot of tequila makes you feel like you are floating on clouds within a few minutes. Loss of control due to heavy drinking may result in pointless fights, injuries, road accidents, and even deaths.
According to a report by CDC, “More than 140,000 people die in the U.S. each year from excessive alcohol use.”
Beer is carbonated and can create gas and bloating effects. Therefore too much beer can cause digestive issues. Excessive alcohol intake, let it be beer or vodka, by no means is safe for your health. Always drink in moderation.
Why does liquor affect me differently than beer?
Hard liquor is all alcohol with quick effects. You might feel your head spinning, your vision blurred, difficulty in standing and talking, or fading out in the end with just a few small shots of hard liquor. Beer, on the other hand, keeps your mood light and refreshing. It may help reduce your stress and help get rid of negative thoughts.
Hard liquor works best for calorie-conscious folks. However, prolonged excessive drinking may lead to addictive behaviors. You no longer remain in charge of your mind. Your dopamine keeps wanting more and more, and in the end, your feeling of pleasure vanishes and then enters depression mode.
Most of the time, you remain angry and frustrated. Socializing feels like a punishment, and your aggressive behavior may even break your most cherished relationships. So, if you love to drink gin or vodka, try taking small amounts.
Beer, however, gives you full freedom to enjoy more cans before getting completely drunk. You have more control over your thoughts and emotions as beers have a low alcohol content of 4-5%. In short, it’s better to be safe than sorry. So, next time you’re planning a hangover, try a beer party.
Bottom Line
Now you know everything. This article is not about promoting alcohol, and you should not consider starting drinking after reading this. Staying sober is the safest way to go but don’t be too strict on yourself. Having a drink once in a while is a great way to enjoy yourself with your friends; however, you must avoid excessive drinking.
Keep in mind you don’t want to get yourself addicted to hard liquor because, in the end, you might end up with a constant depressing mood, irritation, negative and hateful thoughts, and getting pissed off by everyone and everything. If you are given a choice between beer and hard liquor, always go for a beer. Beer is light, refreshing, and a low price to pay for a healthy beverage.
There is an old Egyptian saying, “The mouth of a perfectly happy man is filled with beer.”
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.
