According to an article which appeared in England’s Telegraph today, having a beer after playing a game of football, a long run, or a strenuous round of golf can be good for the body, scientists are now reporting. In a bit of good news for those who enjoy their brew, Spanish researchers have announced that their findings suggest that beer can help someone who is dehydrated retain liquid better than water.
Prof Manuel Garzon, of Granada University, told reporters that the bubbles in beer help to quench the thirst and that its carbohydrate content can help to replace lost calories. Prof Garzon asked a group of students to do strenuous exercise in temperatures of around 40ºC (104ºF). Half were given a pint of beer, while the others received the same volume of water.
Prof Garzon, who announced the results at a press conference in Granada beneath a banner declaring “Beer, Sport, Health”, said the hydration effect in those who drank beer was “slightly better”.
Juan Antonio Corbalan, a cardiologist who worked formerly with Real Madrid football players and Spain’s national basketball team, said beer had the perfect profile for re-hydration after strenuous exercise. He added that he had long recommended barley drinks to professional sportsmen after practices & games.
So get up from your desk and go get some exercise. But when you get back, for God’s sake, have a beer.
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