Beer vs. Whiskey: Which is less harmful as per experts

Alcohol is NOT healthy. As per experts, consuming NO amount of alcohol is healthy. However, in ancient times, some of these drinks were consumed and used in medicinal proportions in the absence of modern medication due to their varied content profile. In this piece of information, we will explore the difference between beer and whiskey, and which one is healthier in comparison.
As per experts, when it comes to alcoholic beverages, beer and whiskey are two of the most popular choices. But which one is healthier? Let us weigh in on factors like calories, alcohol content, nutritional value, and long-term effects to determine which drink is better for human health.
Alcohol Content
Beer: It is said that typically beer contains 4-6% alcohol per serving. Due to its lower strength, people tend to consume it in larger quantities.
Whiskey: On the other hand, whiskey contains 40% alcohol or more, meaning even small amounts have a strong effect.
Note: As per experts, with both the drinks, moderation is key. Since whiskey is stronger, it’s easier to consume less, whereas beer is often drunk in larger amounts, leading to higher overall alcohol intake.

Calories & Weight Management
Beer: As per experts, beer is high in carbs and calories. It is said that a standard pint has around 150-200 calories.
Whiskey: On the contrary, whiskey is low in carbs and sugar, with about 70 calories per shot (30ml).
Note: When it comes to weight management, whiskey has fewer calories and no carbs, while beer can contribute to weight gain, especially when consumed regularly.
Also Read: 7 benefits of beer and why it becomes harmful for some
Heart Health & Antioxidants
Beer: As per studies, beer is rich in polyphenols and B vitamins, which may help boost good cholesterol (HDL) and improve heart health.
Whiskey: It is said to contain ellagic acid, a powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress and inflammation.
Note: As per experts, both drinks have some heart benefits, but whiskey’s higher antioxidant content may give it an edge over beer. However this benefit can only we availed if the drinks are consumed as medicine.
Liver Health & Long-Term Impact
Beer: It is said that when consumed in larger quantities, beer leads to higher alcohol intake over time, which can stress the liver. Beer is also a source of silicon, a mineral that supports bone strength and density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Whiskey: On the other hand, whiskey is stronger but often consumed in moderation, reducing total alcohol exposure.
Note: Excessive drinking of both can damage the liver. However, drinking whiskey in moderation may be less harmful compared to consuming large amounts of beer regularly.

Digestion & Gut Health
Beer: It is said to contain probiotics and fiber, which may support gut health. However, it can also cause bloating.
Whiskey: It has zero carbs and no gluten, making it easier on digestion for some people only if consumed in very limited quantity.
What study says?
As per Harvard T.H, Chan, The Nutrition Source study, , alcohol is both tonic and poison. The difference lies mostly in the dose. Moderate drinking seems to be good for the heart and circulatory system, and probably protects against type 2 diabetes and gallstones. Heavy drinking is a major cause of preventable death in most countries. It also says that heavy drinking can damage the lover and heart, harm an unborn child, and even increases the chances of developing breast and some other cancers, contributing to depression and violence. Also, when it comes to how much alcohol is moderate, it is a very subjective matter. The study says, the term “moderate drinking” refers to less than 1 drink per day, while in others it means 3-4 drinks per day. Exactly what constitutes “a drink” is also fairly fluid.
Side effects of alcohol
As per , alcohol is a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance and has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer decades ago – this is the highest risk group, which also includes asbestos, radiation and tobacco. Alcohol causes at least seven types of cancer, including the most common cancer types, such as bowel cancer and female breast cancer. Also, it has been found that ethanol (alcohol) causes cancer through biological mechanisms as the compound breaks down in the body, which means that any beverage containing alcohol, regardless of its price and quality, poses a risk of developing cancer. The study also says, "The only thing that we can say for sure is that the more you drink, the more harmful it is – or, in other words, the less you drink, the safer it is." The latest available data indicate that half of all alcohol-attributable cancers in the WHO European Region are caused by “light” and “moderate” alcohol consumption – less than 1.5 litres of wine or less than 3.5 litres of beer or less than 450 millilitres of spirits per week.

Which one is healthier?
While isolated researches may point towards some benefits of these drinks, alcohol in any form is extremely harmful as it kills your gut flora, causes oxidative stress, causes inflammation in the body and leads to several cancers and liver damage. They are high in calories and the body finds it difficult to process them and hence it is advised not to consume alcohol. Apart from that, it is best to avoid pairing fat-rich foods, as they tend to increase the calorie count and increase the risk of severe health conditions.
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Health warning: Consumption of alcohol is injurious to health and may lead to severe complications, including liver damage, addiction, and impaired cognitive function. Please consume responsibly.