Can Guinness Beer Benefit Your Health?

Guinness, the iconic Irish beer known for its velvety mouthfeel and richness, has long been associated with touted health benefits. From its iron content to its potential heart-healthy properties, many people believe that drinking Guinness can be good for you. But is there any truth to these claims, or is it just the luck of the Irish? We spoke to Charles Bamforth, Ph.D., a brewing industry veteran and author, to get to the bottom of the Guinness health myth.

How Did People Start to Believe Guinness Is Healthy?

According to Bamforth, Guinness’s reputation as a healthful beverage dates back to the middle of the 20th century when it was advertised with the slogan “Guinness Is Good for You.” This marketing campaign, along with word-of-mouth endorsements, helped solidify the idea that Guinness had health benefits. The first official advertising campaign for Guinness in 1929 also promoted the beer as “Guinness for Strength,” showcasing individuals performing incredible feats powered by Guinness.

Is There Research to Back Up the Touted Health Benefits of Guinness?

Bamforth explains that most beers, including Guinness, contain nutritional benefits such as antioxidants, B vitamins, fiber, silicon, and prebiotics. A 2021 review published in Nutrients suggests that moderate beer consumption may be associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. Additionally, beer made with barley, a whole grain, contributes antioxidants, B vitamins, fiber, and prebiotics to the beverage. Polyphenols from barley and hops have been shown to lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, and protect against free radicals.

While early studies on Guinness suggested that it offered more protective effects against heart conditions than lagers, further research is needed to confirm these findings. Bamforth notes that the alcohol content in any beverage, not just Guinness, may play a role in protecting against atherosclerosis.

Is Guinness Really Lower in Calories Than the Average Beer?

Despite its rich mouthfeel, Guinness is lower in calories compared to many other beers. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.3%, Guinness contains fewer calories than popular lager beers in the U.S., which typically have an ABV of at least 5%. The nitrogenation process used in Guinness, which combines nitrogen gas and carbon dioxide to create its velvety texture, gives the beer a filling quality without adding extra calories.

The Bottom Line

While some research supports moderate alcohol consumption for cardiovascular and bone health, other studies warn of potential risks, such as an increased risk of certain cancers. It’s essential to note that Guinness does not make any health claims about its beer. Health organizations like the American Heart Association recommend moderate alcohol intake but advise against starting to drink alcohol if you currently abstain. In conclusion, while moderate consumption of Guinness may offer some potential health benefits, it’s crucial to approach alcohol consumption with caution and moderation.