Beer and antibiotics: enemies or friends?
Until recently, when asked if it was okay to drink alcohol while taking antibiotics, scientists gave an unequivocal answer: absolutely not. However, in recent years, some of them are not so categorical - there are studies that if not destroy, then at least question this theory. Especially when it comes to low-alcohol beverages, particularly beer. Let's look into whether or not you should give up your favorite drink while taking medication, and if so, in what cases.
Why might it be harmful?
Doctors name two main reasons why drugs should not be mixed with alcohol:
— Alcohol reduces the therapeutic effects of antibiotics - destroying the active ingredient itself or preventing it from interacting with the proteins of pathogens. In addition, alcohol can accelerate the elimination of drugs from the body, thereby reducing its effectiveness, or, conversely, to slow the process, leading to intoxication of the body.
— Both alcohol and antibiotics destroy the liver, so taking both at the same time will be doubly dangerous. In addition to the liver, other organs - pancreas, heart and blood vessels, the central nervous system - can also suffer from such a cocktail.
The other side of the coin
The opposing view - that alcohol is harmless when taking antibiotics - is based on recent research by scientists. They conducted relevant experiments first on animals and then on volunteers. All the test subjects were divided into two groups - one took the medication unaccompanied, the other - combined them with alcohol. Studies have shown that most antibiotics do not interact with alcohol. The rates of absorption, distribution and elimination of drugs from the body were about the same, with slight deviations.
Even so, the scientists did not come to an unequivocal conclusion. First, because the experiments were one-time experiments, which means that the results may be inaccurate. Secondly, it was a question of moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages, but not of large doses. And thirdly, the researchers only tested the mechanism of interaction between the drug and alcohol, and the possible negative impact on the liver was not studied as part of the experiment.
In other words, it is better to refrain from drinking beer while taking antibacterial medications - no one has yet proved that this combination will not harm the body. This is especially true for medications which, if consumed together with alcohol, may cause metabolic problems (ketoconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, cimetidine and their analogues) or provoke disulfiram-like reaction (metronidazole, cefotetan, levomycetin, tetracycline). But even if you dare to drink at your own risk while taking medication, remember that the dose should be small. About the heavy drinking the scientists and doctors are unanimous: it can cause serious harm to the body.
And the best thing is to have a party after you are cured. Come to the beer restaurant Lambic - our company makes enjoying your favorite drink even more pleasant!
Japanese beer Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager
It is tacitly believed that the best beer is brewed in Europe — Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic. However, there are other countries which produce high-quality foam, it is just that it is not so popular in Russia. For example, Japan. Connoisseurs will confirm: it is almost impossible to find tasteless beer in the land of the rising sun. On the shelves of Japanese stores there are both classic varieties and unusual labels. A bright representative of the latter is Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager. Let’s find out what exactly it is good for. Freshness and harmony The original Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager is brewed on the basis of Hitachino Nest Lager light lager, but with a secret ingredient. Yuzu juice, or Japanese citron, is added to the drink. Thanks to this fruit, the taste and aroma of the beer acquires characteristic citrus notes, refreshing sourness and piquant bitterness. In addition to yuzu itself, the flavor of Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager has notes of tangerine, grapefruit, malt and hops. And in addition to the citrus sourness, the full-bodied flavor also shows light malt notes. Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager is so refreshing and drinkable that it is often consumed without gastronomic accompaniment, as an aperitif. It is the perfect drink for hot weather or to quench thirst. This beer can also be served with light appetizers, salads and seafood. A bit of history If you want to delve more into Japanese beer culture, it’s also worth learning more about the maker of Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager. This is a Kiuchi company founded by Kiuchi Nihei in the city of Naka in 1823. Initially, the company only produced sake, and later switched to other alcohols such as wine, liqueurs, and beer. In 1996, Kiuchi put beer production on stream by opening its own mini-brewery, Hitachino Nest. Hitachino is the old name of the province, which in ancient times was known for its fertile soils and abundant crops of grains from which excellent beer was brewed. Kiuchi products have repeatedly received prestigious awards at beer competitions and festivals, not only in Japan, but also abroad. The beer is appreciated for its excellent taste and quality, and the company itself is appreciated for its loyalty to tradition: since its foundation, for almost two centuries, it has been owned by the same family. Looking for a place to try Japanese beer in Moscow? Come to any Lambic beer restaurant. We have many interesting varieties that will pleasantly surprise you!
24 March 2025
Summer lambics: refresh yourself with a fruity beer from Belgium
When the thermometer is high, nothing is as refreshing as a cold beer. Especially if it’s lambics — a traditional Belgian sour beer with natural juice, which not only gives a pleasant coolness, but also pleases with deep flavor. Why fruit beer saves you in the heat Light sourness, sparkling «character» and juicy fruit notes make lambics an ideal drink for summer. Unlike heavy ales or bitter IPAs, fruit beers are easy to drink, almost like lemonade, but with a distinctive beer depth. It stimulates the appetite, quenches thirst and gives a feeling of freshness thanks to the natural juices in the composition — cherry, raspberry, peach or other fruits and berries. What to choose The best option for hot weather — sour lambics, which do not leave an unpleasant feeling of lusciousness, like a sweeter beer or soda. For example, the classic cherry Kriek MAX. The bright flavor of ripe berries and pleasant sourness make it perfect for a hot day. «Kriek» is not too sweet, with a slight tartness and a long aftertaste. If you like softer, sweeter options, Lindemans Pecheresse is your choice. This peach lambic has a honeyed and fruity bouquet, a light sparkle and velvety texture, and a slight acidity and refreshing note in the finish. A variant for cider lovers, but it’s still a lambic — Lindemans Apple. The drink has a bright rich taste, which perfectly balances the sweetness of red and sourness of green apples, pleasant aroma and refreshing aftertaste. Perfect for a hot day! How to drink lambics in the heat For a beer to be truly refreshing, proper serving is important. Lambics should be: — Cool down to 6-8°C — this will reveal all the nuances of flavor, but will not lose the freshness.— Serve in tall glasses — the flavor will «play». If desired, you can add ice to the drink, but do not get carried away — there is a chance to «dilute» the deep flavor of Lambic. And it is better to just have to go to Lambic! In our beer restaurants — a large selection of varieties from Belgium and other countries of the world. Proper serving of drinks, delicious food, cozy atmosphere and excellent service are guaranteed!
21 June 2025