Beer Nutritional Information

Beer is one of the world's most popular drinks, yet remains controversial in terms of nutritional value. Many claim beer can be beneficial to human health, yet research has yielded inconclusive results.

Significance

• Because beer is ranked third in popularity among all beverages--falling short of only water and tea according to data--its effect on health can be tremendous. Beer of all types is drinkable, affordable and ubiquitous--whatever its effect on nutrition, it is certainly widespread.

Effects

• The most advertised effect of beer is "beer belly" through caloric intake. Beer averages 145 calories per 12 fluid ounces, but this varies greatly by specific beer type. Light beers average 20 to 30 percent fewer calories per serving size. The higher the alcohol content of a beer, the more calories it packs.

Features

• On the plus side, beer contains no fat at all--this makes its caloric content controversial, as the "beer belly" phenomenon may actually be tied to lifestyle and associated foods people consume with beer.

Considerations

• Research indicates beer contains considerable amounts of fiber--up to 60 percent of the daily intake in some cases. Beer also contains small amounts of protein. A can of mass-market beer pulls in 13 grams of carbohydrates, which is significant.

Misconceptions

• Beer advocates insist on highlighting the fact that beer features significant amounts of vitamin B complexes and minerals such as selenium, biotin and potassium. B12 is especially notable in most beer varieties.

Warning

• The problem with the upside of beer nutrition as described above is that it's taken in with alcohol--which is known to break down nutrients such as vitamins and impede absorption in the body. This is why beer nutrition is still controversial.