Brewers' scoop: A pint a day keeps the doctor away

Reuters
Posted October 18 2001

BRUSSELS -- It might give you a belly and a hangover, but drinking beer is
good for you, health experts say.

Often overlooked for its medicinal properties, the benefits of beer were
recognized as far back as the Greek civilization.


``The mood altering properties were considered supernatural and intoxication
thought to be divine,'' said Antonio Gasbarrini, a professor at the Catholic
University of Rome.

Beer is not only rich in vitamins, but taken in moderation, can cut
cardiovascular disease and protect against cancer and osteoporosis, according
to the findings at a one-day ``beer and health'' conference held in Belgium.

Experts said part of the secret of beer lies in its laxative and sedative
properties, which derive from the hops used to flavor the drink. Hops have
traditionally been used to treat health problems ranging from stress to
menopausal ailments.