He that drinketh strong beer and goes to bed right mellow, lives as he ought to live and dies a hearty fellow. - Anonymous

There are many people who will look at any alcoholic drink as a vice to be avoided, and when seen in the light of abuse they would be correct. However there are many studies that show the benefits moderate alcohol consumption can have. From increased brain activity that wards off Alzheimer’s to lower blood pressure to better stress management, small amounts of alcohol in one's diet can be just what the doctor ordered.  

But are all alcoholic drinks equal? I would argue that there is one drink that rises above the rest, and that drink is none other than the glorious imbibe that is beer. Not only does beer give you the health benefits from the alcohol it provides, it also delivers protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and an assortment of other nutrients not found in liquors and wines. This is not surprising, however, when you look at the ingredients that make up a beer. Simply put, it's liquefied bread, and if bread is the staff of life, then beer is its shining headpiece.

It is also important to mention that not all beers are created equal either. Some beers, such as pale ales, have higher amounts of silicon, a nutrient that aides in strengthening bones. Beers with higher concentrations of oatmeal have more protein, and beers that have more hops in them supply the body with an array of benefits like antioxidants and immune system boosters.  

Exploring the benefits of beer isn't just medical either. The social benefits of increased happiness in a community of beer drinkers can have large impacts on productivity and creativity (of course wine/liquor has this effect as well, I’m just being partial here). The blessings that such a simple drink bring us would make all of us agree with one of the most famous quotes about it from Benjamin Franklin:  

Beer is proof that God loves us, and wants us to be happy.

So next time you open up a brew, just know that you could be doing your body and life a great benefit.

Enjoy.

Dale Ward, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits beer consultant

Follow me on Twitter @abcbeerdalew