Beer; a Carbonated, Fermented Alcoholic Beverage Usually Made From Malted Cereal Grains

 

Beer is probably one of the oldest and third most consumed alcoholic beverages throughout the world, with the second most consumed beverage overall behind water and tea. Although the world has gotten used to the taste and variety of different beers from around the world through commercialization, the drink remains as much a social pastime and passion as it has ever been. Whether drinking alone or with friends, beer helps relieve tension and depression and has even been proven to alleviate symptoms of some medical conditions.

According to the U.S. Census population statistics and beer shipment data, U.S. consumers aged 21 and older consumed 26.1 gallons of beer and cider per person during 2020. Around 75% of the population, 244 million people, are over the age of 21 and are considered legal drinking age. Beer is generally brewed from cereal grains, such as rice, maize, and wheat. Moreover, beer is brewed with hops that adds stability, bitterness, and flavor to the beer. Other flavoring agents such as gruit, fruits, and herbs can also be added instead of hops.

Although it is hard to pinpoint exactly how or why beer has gained such popularity over the years. Another explanation as to the rise of beer popularity is related to the wide variety of different beer styles that have evolved throughout the centuries. Some alcoholic beverages, such as beer, help reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Moderate alcohol use (one to two drinks per day) reduces the risk of heart attack, atherosclerosis, and coronary heart disease by around 30% to 50% when compared with nondrinkers.

However, since beer contains empty calories, consuming too much of it can put the consumer at risk for weight gain and obesity, which is the root of many other health problems. Excessive consumption can also increase the risk of liver disease, heart disease, and alcohol dependency. Drinking one alcoholic beverage per day or drinking alcohol on at least 3 to 4 days per week is a good rule of thumb for people who drink alcohol.