Beer, diabetes and metabolic syndrome

Epidemiological studies show that there is an inverse correlation between moderate and regular beer consumption and the incidence of type II diabetes. This can be observed in both sexes when consumption is regular. This type of consumption is associated with a lower glycaemia and a lower level of glycated haemoglobin with a risk of hypoglycaemia in diabetic individuals. The consumption of an alcoholic beverage leads to a decrease in the nocturnal secretion of growth hormone. Moderate and regular beer consumption is associated with a lower resistance to insulin. The lipid profile is modified with a rise in HDL cholesterol levels. The influence of this type of alcohol consumption on triglyceride levels seems minor. Coagulation factor VII and fibrinogen levels are decreased. On the whole, when alcohol consumption remains moderate, a 30% decrease in morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular diseases can be observed. The vitamin B content of beer could explain the positive effect this beverage has on homocysteine levels, which is another cardiovascular risk factor.