You are likely working out to change or maintain a certain level of health -- you also likely know that your diet has a significant effect on the results of your workout. One of America’s favorite beverages, beer, could impact how much you benefit from your workout routine. But it really depends on what your workout routine is and how you have set your goals.
Cardio for Heart Health
A speech given by Dr. H.F.J. Hendriks at the Beer and Health Symposium 2011 reveals what may be a counterintuitive result to many: Beer consumption benefits cardiovascular health. The conclusion of his speech mentions that the benefits to your cardiovascular system that cardio exercise brings are actually additive with the benefits that beer brings. But this is only true for moderate amounts of alcohol. Approximately 15 grams of alcohol per day is optimal.
Cardio for Fat Loss
For cardio exercises with the goal of fat loss, a beer-drinking habit may hurt your overall results. Beer is a poor choice of alcoholic beverage for those chasing slimmer bodies, as it is one of the alcoholic beverages highest in both calories and carbohydrates, two of the factors that lead to fat gain. If your goal is fat loss and you cannot do without alcohol, try switching your bottle of beer out for a shot of gin, vodka or whisky, all of which contain about half the calories and zero carbohydrates.
It is well known in weight-training circles that alcohol is a “gains killer.” That is, the muscle gains that you strive for during a workout may not come if you are ingesting too much alcohol, including beer. This occurs through the blockage of protein synthesis, the forming of new muscles, caused by alcohol consumption. If you are celebrating post-workout with a beer or two, you are in essence obstructing the efforts you made in the gym.
As a General Sports Drink
What you drink to rehydrate yourself after a workout may have an effect on the benefits of the workout itself. While some choose to drink water or sports drinks, some choose beer. Research performed on the effects of beer as a sports drink has shown few differences from that of water in most respects. However, one possible benefit beer may have over water as a post-workout drink is that it may reduce the levels of cortisol present after the workout. A lower level of cortisol implies less stress -- that is, beer as a post-workout drink can help you relax after an intensive exercise session.
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