UK: Beer fights osteoporosis, it�s proven

Scientific research carried out by St Thomas' Hospital in London shows beer is good for our bones, the Morning Advertiser posted on May 11.

The researchers said drinking a pint of beer a day may even help stave off osteoporosis in later life.

The studies tested the bone-strengthening powers of beer by getting healthy individuals aged between 18 and 50 to drink beers with varying alcoholic contents.

Over a six-hour period, it was found that the ethanol in the beer succeeded in inhibiting the action of hormones in the body known to cause the gradual weakening of the bones - possibly leading to osteoporosis in later life.

In fact, the results showed that the beneficial effect of ethanol consumption on bone-loss prevention was comparable with that of calcium.

Professor Jonathan Powell, who led the research, told the medical website NetDoctor.co.uk: "This is a very interesting finding. Everyone knows that calcium inhibits bone loss but we found that the ethanol in beer has the same, if not better, effect."

"Moderation, of course, is the key, and we know that drinking too much beer can have real adverse effects," he added.

Osteoporosis is currently estimated to affect more than three million people in the UK, with women more susceptible than men, and the over-50s most likely to develop the condition.

So drink up now - you know it's good for you!