NUTRITION AND CALORIES

INTRODUCTION

All beers are made from the same basic natural ingredients; hops, water, yeast and malted cereal such as barley and wheat. When malted, barley is a very rich source of B group vitamins including nicacin, riboflavin (B2), pyridoxine (B6), folate (B9) and cobalamin (B12). According to the US Department of Agriculture, a half pint of beer contains on average 7% of daily folate requirement for an adult and 9% of the required vitamin B2 intake.

Whilst beer is an alcoholic drink, it also contains some important nutrients. Beer includes amongst others things, silicon, magnesium, zinc and selenium. All these minerals are vital for our good health.  It is also interesting to note that beer contains significant levels of various B vitamins. These vitamins all have specific and important roles with the body but are generally are important to support the maintenance of a healthy nervous system and in the processing of carbohydrates and proteins into energy.

Beer contains absolutely no fat, no sugar, no cholesterol. It is hydrating and typically low in alcohol compared to all other alcoholic drinks.

CALORIES: 

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There are a number of myths surrounding beer, such as “the beer belly”, but the facts show that beer has a relatively low calorific value compared to other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks served in pubs.  Calories come mostly from the alcohol itself, and since beer compared to wine has the lowest average alcohol content, it is also lowest in calories.

Calorie comparisons: the facts

• A half pint (284mls) of bitter (ABV 3.8%)  = 90 calories
• A 330ml bottle of lager (ABV 4%) = 112 calories
• A 175ml glass of red wine (ABV 13%) = 139 calories
• A 175ml glass of white wine (ABV 11.8%) = 130 calories