Who would’ve thought, right?! As it turns out, beer is a great post-workout drink for a number of reasons, according to the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism.
The study says a light beer with an ABV less than 4% can actually do a great job of rehydrating you. However, if the ABV goes above 4%, then harmful effects outweigh positive ones. They say a drink higher than 4% can risk greater water loss, reduced muscle gain, and a potential increase in body fat.
As opposed to water, Dr. Brad Schoenfield, a science advisor for Men’s Health, says beer has carbohydrates and sodium which will make you want to hydrate more, which is a benefit.
To receive the most benefits, the authors of the study say you should also eat as you drink because no alcohol can recover your electrolytes like food can.
Another benefit comes from the polyphenols, antioxidants, and antiviral plant compounds found in beer that can help boost your immune system.
Dr. Schoenfield says it’s okay to have a beer after a workout once in a while, but it still shouldn’t become a habit. And, he says you definitely shouldn’t be drinking alcohol before you workout.
Do you like light beer? Would you ever try it as a post-workout drink?
Source: Men’s Health
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