??Pouring Over the Facts: A Nutritional Guide to Beer??

Let’s take a closer look at beer, from a nutritionist’s point (or pint ??) of view

In moderation, beer may induce relaxation and a temporary sense of happiness. Yet, it’s important to remember that overindulgence in beer, or any other alcoholic drink, can lead to negative consequences. Consuming too many “cold ones” can result in dehydration, impaired judgment, liver damage, weight gain, and an increased risk of certain health issues.

The carbohydrates found in beer mainly derive from the malt used during brewing. These carbs not only provide calories but can also be a source of energy. Your body breaks down these carbohydrates into glucose, which is then utilized for energy.

While this may sound appealing, it’s not advisable to use beer as your primary energy source. Excessive intake of carbohydrates from beer (or from any other source) can lead to weight gain since the body converts surplus glucose into fat. Also, certain beers may have a higher carbohydrate content, potentially affecting blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.

If you find yourself craving an ice-cold beer, you could consider reducing your daily carbohydrate intake by about 1-2 servings (Pro-tip: Each serving equals 15g of net carbs).

The number of pints you drink will affect how you thoughtfully balance your overall intake. For your reference, one can of beer (356g) equals about 13g of carbs, which would roughly equate to one of Lumen's carb servings for the day.

Drinking alcohol can stop you from reaching overnight fat burn. Detoxifying alcohol is a top priority for your metabolism. But alcohol delays carb burn and makes it harder to reach morning fat burn. The carbohydrates present in beer are quickly absorbed, which might cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This should be considered by individuals monitoring their glucose or following specific dietary requirements.

Timing also has an effect on your metabolic state! We suggest consuming carbs earlier in the day, giving the body enough time to recover overnight and wake up burning fat the next day.

While summer is winding down and beyond, it’s essential to drink responsibly and be mindful of your alcohol intake to help uphold your metabolism & health in the best way possible.

Cheers!

Written with love by Arielle Brea Lofton, MS, RDN , Lumen Nutritionist & Registered Dietitian.

#nutrition #health #metabolichealth #metabolicinsights #lumenme #beer #intrenationalbeerday