Nutrition expert Dr. AnnaSchaefer points out that beer is often perceived as a less dangerous alcoholic beverage, but it poses the same risks to the body as other types of alcohol.
According to her, beer affects weight, blood sugar levels, liver function and eating habits, explaining whether there is a safe limit for its consumption.
The expert points out that there is no medically safe dose of alcohol; even small amounts can increase health risks. Therefore, it's more accurate to speak of a less dangerous level, rather than considering any amount absolutely "safe." The effects of alcohol are also determined by numerous factors, including age, sex, body weight, liver and pancreas health, chronic diseases, medications, genetics, and an individual's ability to control their alcohol consumption.
She says: "The common belief that beer is less harmful than hard alcoholic drinks is not entirely accurate. The main risks lie in the ethanol present in all alcoholic drinks. Regular consumption can lead to high blood pressure, poor sleep quality, an increased risk of addiction, and negative effects on the liver and pancreas. Alcohol is also associated with metabolic disorders and an increased risk of certain diseases."
The effect of beer on weight is a separate topic. The number of calories in a beverage depends on its strength, sugar content, and production method. On average, 100 ml of light beer contains 25-35 calories, while pale light beer contains around 40-50 calories, and stronger, sweeter varieties can contain 55-80 calories or more.
In addition, alcohol also affects eating behavior. After drinking beer, many people experience a strong craving for salty, fatty, or crunchy foods. This is because alcohol reduces internal inhibitions and enhances the appeal of strongly flavored foods. Furthermore, many people associate beer consumption with snacking, which reinforces this behavioral pattern.
Schaefer points out that beer also affects metabolism. For example, ethanol contains about 7 calories per gram, and with regular consumption, it can contribute to elevated triglyceride levels and the development of insulin resistance. The effect of alcohol on blood sugar levels varies from person to person.
The carbohydrates in beer can raise blood glucose levels, while the alcohol itself can disrupt glucose production in the liver, potentially causing a delayed drop in blood sugar in some cases. For this reason, beer is not a safe choice for people with diabetes, as its effects depend on the dosage, the drink's ingredients, and any medications the person is taking.
Doctors advise pregnant and breastfeeding women, minors, and individuals with alcohol use disorders or who cannot control their alcohol consumption to abstain completely from beer and other alcoholic beverages. Alcohol consumption is also prohibited during exacerbations of liver and gastrointestinal diseases, acute pancreatitis, and while taking medications that are incompatible with alcohol.
According to Schaefer, there is no specific amount of beer that guarantees no harm. However, the less frequently and in the amount of alcohol consumed, the lower the potential health risks.
