Brewer’s Rx: How Beer When Sick Can Cure Common Ailments
Beer, one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in the world, has been consumed for centuries for its taste and therapeutic properties. Despite the negative connotation attached to alcohol, beer, when taken in moderation, can have many health benefits and even help cure common ailments. In this article, we explore the medicinal properties of beer and how it can improve your health when you’re feeling under the weather.
The Healing Properties of Beer
Beer contains a variety of natural ingredients that have long been used for medicinal purposes. The hops in beer contain an essential oil called lupulin, which has a sedative effect and can help induce sleep and reduce anxiety. The malts in beer contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help boost the immune system, fight off infections, and enhance digestion.
The yeast in beer is also a key ingredient that has many health benefits. Yeast contains B vitamins such as folate and thiamine, which can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of heart disease. Yeast also contains enzymes that help break down carbohydrates, making it easier for the body to digest food and absorb nutrients.
How Beer Can Help Cure Common Ailments
When you’re feeling sick, the last thing you may think of is to grab a beer. However, beer, when consumed in moderation, can actually help ease some of the symptoms associated with common ailments such as the common cold and flu.
If you’re experiencing a congested chest or stuffy nose, beer can help ease your symptoms. The steam from a hot beer can help clear nasal passages and sinuses, allowing you to breathe easier. The alcohol in beer also acts as a decongestant, helping to reduce inflammation in the airways.
Beer can also help with stomachaches and nausea. The hops in beer have a soothing effect on the stomach, helping to reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Additionally, the carbonation in beer can help settle an upset stomach, making it easier to keep food down.
For those suffering from insomnia, a beer before bed can help induce sleep. The lupulin in hops has a sedative effect, helping to calm the mind and body. However, it’s important to note that drinking too much beer can actually disrupt sleep patterns and lead to a hangover.
Tips for Drinking Beer When Sick
While beer can have many health benefits, it’s important to drink in moderation and follow some tips when you’re feeling under the weather.
– Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can make your symptoms worse.
– Choose the right beer: Opt for light beers or low-alcohol options to avoid exacerbating your symptoms.
– Avoid sugary beers: Sugary beers can make a sore throat or cough worse, so stick with lighter options.
– Don’t overdo it: Drinking too much beer can actually weaken your immune system and make your symptoms worse, so drink in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can beer cure the flu?
A: While beer cannot cure the flu, it can help ease some of the symptoms associated with the flu such as congestion and stomach upset.
Q: Can beer make my cold worse?
A: Drinking too much beer can actually weaken the immune system and make cold symptoms worse, so it’s important to drink in moderation.
Q: Can beer help with a sore throat?
A: The alcohol and hops in beer can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation, but it’s important to drink in moderation.
Overall, beer can be a helpful remedy for common ailments when consumed in moderation. So, next time you’re feeling under the weather, reach for a cold beer and enjoy its therapeutic properties.