The benefits and harms of beer: an objective assessment
Those who have decided to give up alcohol completely are convinced that beer is no less harmful than other alcoholic beverages. The lovers of beer are ready to argue, citing as arguments the ancient origin of the drink and its world-famous health properties. So which of them is right?
What do the doctors think?
According to doctors, high-quality beer, which is produced according to all the rules, is really good for the body. However, only if consumed in moderation. The norm is not more than 300 grams a day two times a week. Such doses will help to speed up metabolic processes in the body, which, in turn, will help to rejuvenate the cells of the circulatory system. In addition, good beer is able to fight pathogenic bacteria, have a soothing and pain-relieving effect.
Scientists have proved that beer contains flavonoids, which suppress the effect of carcinogens, a variety of vitamins and trace elements. As for the content of iron, phosphorus, copper, magnesium and other minerals, beer can easily compete with orange juice. Also, beer quickly eliminates aluminum from the body, so if poisoned by this substance, it can safely be used as medicine.
The problem is that the small doses of beer that are recommended by doctors, respectively, contain few vitamins. In order to get more nutrients, the volume of the drink consumed must be increased. And here there is the other side of the coin. Because beer has a diuretic effect, in large quantities it is able to wash out of the body useful substances. In addition, the fact that alcohol is harmful to the body when consumed immoderately should be added.
Does beer make you fat?
This is another question that worries a lot of people. It is not all unambiguous and depends primarily on the amount you drink. In small quantities, light beer can even contribute to weight loss, because it stimulates the digestive system. In addition, beer itself is considered a low-calorie product - no more harmful to the figure than milk or juice.
But in combination with salty snacks it can significantly slow down weight loss. Salt retains water in the body, which provokes the appearance of edema and slows down metabolism. The same applies to fatty dishes that are served with beer - the drink itself is hardly capable of adding extra centimeters, but the total caloric value of such a meal turns out to be high.
In order not to harm the body, beer should be consumed in moderation and in combination with the right snacks: salty nuts prefer cheese, dried fish - baked, fatty chicken wings - well-cooked steak. And to enjoy even a small bottle of beer you should visit a beer restaurant, where they will help you to choose a drink that allows you to enjoy every sip. We are waiting for you at Lambic!
The strongest beers: what to try
Beer is considered to be a light drink - you can drink a lot of it and hardly get tipsy. But this is true only for non-strength varieties. Meanwhile, there are some that can easily give a head start to both vodka and whiskey. Let's tell you more about them! World leaders Brewmeister Snake Venom (67.5%) Scottish ale called “snake venom” for its incredible strength. It is achieved by smoking peat malt, using two types of yeast and multiple freezing. Despite the high concentration of alcohol, the beer is characterized by softness, retaining hop aroma and malt bitterness. Price - more than 6000 rubles. Used in cocktails. Brewdog Strength in Numbers (57.8%) The result of a collaboration between BrewDog and Schorschbräu, who created the beer using the “Icebock” method (freezing and clearing of ice). Additional strength was provided by a 10-year-old whisky. It was released in a limited edition at a price of $40 for 50 ml. Brewmeister Armageddon (65%) Scottish beer made from crystal malt, oats, wheat and spring water. The strength is achieved thanks to the addition of aged whisky. Price - from 5000 rubles. Koelschip Start the Future (60%) Dutch ale obtained by the “Icebock” method. Despite the standard ingredients, the flavor turned out to be unusual - sweet-tart with soapy and peppery notes. Created as an experiment, not flavor-oriented. Price - approximately $46 for 330 ml. Schorschbrau Schorschbock 57 (57%) German ale from the famous Schorschbrau brewery, which usually produces beers with a strength of 13-16%.It is distinguished by dark amber color, oily texture and burning taste with whiskey notes. It is produced in limited batches, the price is $300 for 400 ml.Rock Bottom Campbell Beer PT's Punch (56%)A California ale with guava, orange and passion fruit. Easier to drink than its European counterparts, with a pleasant bitterness and floral notes. Unlike other experimental varieties, the drink is available in online stores for pre-order. Strong in Lambic In our country, of course, you can not drink 50-degree beer. But you can treat yourself to a strong foamy drink in any beer restaurant. At Lambic we offer several with high strength. The result of a collaboration between BrewDog and Schorschbräu, who created the beer using the “Icebock” method (freezing and clearing of ice).Additional strength was provided by a 10-year-old whisky. It is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the strongest in the world, and the high degree is achieved thanks to fermentation. We will recommend excellent gastronomic accompaniments for all varieties so that you can get a real pleasure. We look forward to seeing you!
23 April 2025
Bornem Double beer: a taste with a history
There are many special options among Belgian brews, especially when it comes to beers with a history. But Bornem Double stands out even among such stars. At the recent California Microbrew Beer Festival, this Van Steenberge Abbey draft was recognized as the best in its category. What is its charm — we will tell you in this article. Main features Bornem Double is a lively beer with a full, rich, velvety flavor that harmoniously combines fruity notes and malt sweetness. The long aftertaste reveals nuances of spices and chocolate, as well as neat hop notes. Separately it is worth talking about the aroma. It is very beautiful, with notes of milk chocolate, brown sugar, vanilla and spices. The variety is good both inside and outside — in the glass it reveals a deep dark brown color with burgundy reflections. Bornem Double is usually served with meat dishes — steaks, grill, game, sausages. Despite the rather high strength of 8%, the beer is very drinkable, and you can hardly feel alcohol in it. It is also perfect for cold seasons, as it has a warming effect. Secrets of production The history of Bornem beer began in 1957 at the Beirens brewery in the town of Wommelgem. After the brewery closed in 1971, thanks largely to the abbots of the Bornem monastery, the recipe was taken over by the Van Steenberge brewery. The beer was originally sold under the St. Bernard brand and with the monk’s image on the label. However, to avoid similarity with the St. Bernardus Watou brand, the logo was changed: an image of a heron holding a fish appeared on the label. The choice of the symbol is not accidental: the heron is a typical inhabitant of the neighborhood of Bornem, which reflects both the charm of the local fauna and the traditional culture of the region. By the way, the word «heron» is often found in the names of local bars and brasseries. The main feature of this dub is the manufacturing technology. The beer is not pasteurized, and after primary fermentation in barrels it undergoes secondary fermentation in bottles, acquiring its unique taste. You can try Bornem Double in any Lambic brasserie. In our beer restaurants you will find a large selection of varieties from all over the world, including Trappists, as well as an excellent assortment of dishes and always cozy atmosphere. Come — we will find something to surprise you!
23 April 2025