Beer and Cholesterol
Beer is often associated with large, protruded bellies and weight gain. You might assume that beer can cause cholesterol. However, when consumed in moderate proportions, it can actually help lower cholesterol.
HDL and LDL
HDL is "good cholesterol" that carries heart-threatening cholesterol away from the heart to the liver where it can be eliminated as waste. Studies conducted at Emory University and the University of Western Ontario have shown that beer can help increase HDL while lowering LDL. LDL cholesterol is "bad cholesterol" that clogs the arteries leading to heart disease and an increased risk of heart attacks.
Barley
Beer is made from barley, a cereal grain. Barely contains soluble fiber that can lower cholesterol levels. Barley is not widely available in many foods in the United States, so beer is a main source of barely for many people. Soluble fiber is also available in foods such as oatmeal, fruit (apples, blackberries and pears), vegetables (brussel sprouts) and legumes (lima beans, northern beans and black beans) without any negative health effects.
Moderation
Although beer has some health benefits, including the ability to lower cholesterol levels, it also can negatively affect health, especially with excessive consumption. Beer can lead to weight gain, liver damage and alcohol poisoning. Furthermore, studies conclude that the cholesterol-lowering ability of beer was no longer present after three beers.
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