Sorry, Baba: Beer drinkers have the worst diets of all alcohol consumers.

Summary: New research presented at The Liver Meeting shows significant differences in diet and lifestyle among alcohol consumers based on their drink preferences. The study, published in the journal Nutrients, found that beer drinkers consistently had the lowest scores on measures of diet quality and physical activity levels compared to those who drank wine, alcohol, or a combination. It turned out to be.

Journal: Nutrients, November 13, 2024 | Reading time: 4 minutes

Understanding drinking habits and health

As liver disease rates continue to rise in the United States, researchers are investigating the complex relationship between alcohol choices and overall health habits. A new study of more than 1,900 U.S. adults who consume alcohol reveals striking differences in lifestyle patterns based on drink preferences.

“Excessive alcohol consumption is the leading cause of cirrhosis in the United States, and metabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) is rapidly increasing,” explained Madeline Novak, lead author of the study. do. “Both types of liver disease often co-exist, and lifestyle changes are key to managing and preventing these conditions, starting with understanding the link between alcohol use and malnutrition.”

Meal quality measurement

The research team used the Healthy Eating Index, a standardized 100-point scale based on dietary guidelines, to assess participants’ eating habits. While none of the groups achieved a score of 80, the threshold considered sufficient for a healthy diet, beer drinkers’ scores were significantly lower than the other groups.

Beer-only drinkers, who made up 38.9% of participants, scored just 49 points. By comparison, wine drinkers (21.8% of participants) scored 55 points, while those who only drink alcohol (18.2%) and those who consume multiple types of alcohol (21%) both scored 53 points. Obtained nearby.

Context matters

This study suggests that drinking status may play an important role in these dietary patterns. In the United States, beer consumption often occurs in environments that tend to be low in dietary fiber and high in carbohydrates and processed meats. Conversely, wine, especially red wine, is often paired with more complete meals such as meat, vegetables, and dairy products.

These findings may have important implications for healthcare providers. To better guide the conversation about healthy behaviors, the researchers say, especially beer-only drinkers who may benefit from increasing their fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity levels. It suggests that doctors should ask about the type of alcohol consumed.

Glossary:

• Cirrhosis: Severe scarring of the liver caused by various forms of liver disease
• MASLD: Fatty liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction
• Healthy Eating Index: a standardized tool to measure diet quality based on dietary guidelines
• Diet quality: A measure of how well a person’s diet meets nutritional guidelines

quiz:

1. What percentage of study participants were exclusive beer drinkers?
   Answer: 38.9%
2. How did Beer Lovers Score on the Healthy Eating Index?
   Answer: 49 points
3. What score on the Healthy Eating Index is considered appropriate?
   Answer: 80 points
4. What percentage of participants were wine-only drinkers?
   Answer: 21.8%

Enjoy this story? Get our newsletter! https://scienceblog.substack.com/

related