The favorite alcoholic drink of Slovaks and Czechs has been an integral part of culture, social life and everyday meetings for centuries. In addition to its taste, however, it can also hide surprising properties.
We are talking about beer, which, according to the latest research, may contain more vitamin B6 than previously thought. Scientists point out that this drink could be an interesting source of some nutrients, although its consumption should still be viewed with moderation and balance.
The findings open up new questions about the impact of traditional beverages on health. They show that even ordinary things can hide unexpected benefits if we look at them more closely and scientifically.
Beer as an unexpected source of vitamin B6
New findings from scientists show that the popular drink can be an unexpected source of an important vitamin, and its non-alcoholic version is no exception. It was found that beer contains a remarkable amount of vitamin B6, which is important for the proper functioning of the body, they also write on the portal Euronews.
Research published in a professional journal Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry analyzed dozens of commercially available beers from Germany. Scientists used a new laboratory method that made it possible to more accurately measure the content of vitamin B6. The results showed that its amount is often higher than originally thought, although it varies between brands.
Vitamin B6 is an essential substance that the body cannot create on its own, but it plays a key role in the functioning of the brain, blood formation and immune support. Experts estimate that one regular serving of beer could cover around 15% of the recommended daily allowance.
Experts report that the lack of this vitamin is quite common in the world. Its low levels are associated with several health problems, including depression, inflammation and cardiovascular diseases.
What did the study find?
An analysis of 65 German beers showed that the content of vitamin B6 varies significantly according to the type of drink. The values ranged from about 95 to more than 1,000 micrograms per liter, which is higher than previously thought.
At the same time, the scientists found that the decisive role is not played by the production process itself, but mainly by the raw materials used. In other words, what the beer is made from is more important than exactly how it is produced. Stronger Bock-type beers, which are produced with a higher proportion of barley malt, contained the most vitamin B6. On the contrary, wheat and rice beers, for example, had lower values.
Barley is the key factor. It naturally has a higher content of vitamin B6 than other cereals, for example rice. Therefore, barley-based beers achieve overall higher nutritional values.
Alcohol remains a risk despite vitamins
The scientists’ findings show that non-alcoholic beer can contain a similar amount of vitamin B6 as regular beer. According to research, the removal of alcohol does not mean the loss of this important nutrient. Some non-alcoholic lagers achieved very good values. In extreme cases, half a liter could cover up to a quarter of the recommended daily allowance for women.
However, one thing must be clearly stated, and that is that alcohol is not safe. The World Health Organization warns that there is no completely safe dose. It is associated with a higher risk of cancer, liver damage, heart problems and negative effects on the brain.
Even though beer contains vitamin B6, it is still an alcoholic drink that can be harmful. A much safer way to supplement this vitamin is a varied diet, for example fish, potatoes, legumes or cereals.
