Last Updated:
PETA’s claim that beer is more beneficial than milk is misleading and not backed by scientific evidence
Excessive consumption of any substance can be harmful, and people are less likely to overconsume milk compared to beer, which carries a higher risk of potentially life-threatening situations. (THIP Media)
A social media video claims that drinking beer is healthier than milk. We fact checked and found the claim to be false.
The Claim
A YouTube shorts claims that drinking beer is healthier than consuming milk. Claiming that it leads to stronger bones and a longer lifespan. They further argue that milk contributes to diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
Fact Check
Does beer really strengthen bones?
The answer to this question is mixed because of the various studies in the research.
Researches
In the past, some studies suggested that alcohol might have positive effects on bones. For instance, a study in the American Journal of Medicine found that individuals who had about one alcoholic drink daily were at a lower risk of hip fractures compared to those who abstained. A separate British study also indicated that women over 65 who drank more than five times a week had a lower risk of vertebral deformity than those who consumed only one drink weekly.
However, much of the research on alcohol and osteoporosis is observational, meaning it can’t establish definitive cause-and-effect relationships. More recent research has questioned the idea that alcohol could be beneficial for bone health.
For example, an analysis of six studies published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence revealed a positive association between alcohol consumption and osteoporosis, suggesting that alcohol increases the likelihood of developing the condition. The findings indicated that, compared to non-drinkers:
- Those who had 0.5 to 1 drink per day had 1.38 times the risk of developing osteoporosis.
- Those who had 1 to 2 drinks per day had 1.34 times the risk.
- Those who drank 2 or more drinks daily had 1.63 times the risk.
Experts view
Dr. Amit Harshana, a General Physician and Community Medicine Specialist at Akeso Health, cautions against the potential dangers of alcohol consumption. He emphasizes, “I strongly advise my patients against starting to drink alcohol in the belief that it has health benefits. The myths surrounding alcohol’s positive effects are often exaggerated and lack strong evidence to justify drinking, especially given the risks of abuse and addiction. The negative impacts of alcohol far outweigh the minor benefits suggested by some studies. For those who already consume alcohol, I recommend reducing their intake to lower health risks. Adopting a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and meaningful social connections is a far safer and more effective way to promote long-term health and well-being.”
Note:
It is unreasonable to suggest that drinking beer contributes to bone strength without solid scientific evidence to substantiate such claims. While beer contains silicon, which may play a role in bone health, the type of beer consumed also plays a significant role. In a society where individuals controlled their drinking habits, alcohol addiction would not be a prevalent issue. Consequently, promoting beer as a means of strengthening bones, even with a disclaimer on moderation, is misleading. If any organizations seek to encourage a healthy vegetarian diet, they should advocate for the consumption of barley, which contains silicon, rather than endorsing beer. Suggesting that beer is a preferable alternative to milk for bone health constitutes disinformation.
Can Beer increase lifespan?
No, Beer is not linked to longer life. PETA’s claim that beer can increase lifespan is not supported by credible scientific evidence. In fact, drinking alcohol in excess is known to lead to a wide range of health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and increased risk of certain cancers, all of which can significantly shorten life expectancy.
While moderate alcohol/beer consumption may have some benefits, like improved heart health, beer does not provide any miraculous properties for increasing lifespan. It’s important to note that the key to longevity isn’t in any specific drink but rather in a balanced lifestyle that includes healthy eating, exercise, and avoiding harmful substances like excessive alcohol.
Is beer better than milk for nutrients?
No, milk offers far more nutritional benefits. Milk is a powerhouse when it comes to essential nutrients. It provides a rich source of protein, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and other important vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health. These nutrients play key roles in promoting healthy muscles, bones, skin, and nerve function. For instance, vitamin D, which is commonly found in milk, helps the body absorb calcium effectively.
Beer, in contrast, does not offer the same benefits. While it contains small amounts of nutrients like B vitamins and some minerals, these are far less bioavailable (easily absorbed by the body) than the nutrients found in milk. Moreover, the alcohol in beer has a detrimental effect on the body, which can neutralise any small benefits it might provide.
Can milk cause diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cancer?
No, milk doesn’t cause these diseases when consumed moderately.
The claim that milk causes obesity, diabetes, and cancer is not scientifically supported. There is no strong evidence to suggest that milk directly causes obesity or cancer. When it comes to obesity, milk itself is not a major contributor to weight gain, but some types, like whole milk, are higher in fat and calories. Consuming excessive amounts of calorie-rich foods, including milk, can lead to weight gain. Research suggests that dairy consumption might help reduce the risk of bowel cancer.
Aditi Prabhu, Clinical & Sports Dietitian-Nutritionist and Founder of NutroDynamix, said “While there is no definitive evidence linking milk directly to diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer, most research suggests that milk may not be the sole cause. Instead, its effects may depend on factors like:
- Overall dietary intake (both quantity and quality) and lifestyle choices
- Genetic predisposition
- The type of dairy products consumed
In relation to the studies mentioned in the PETA video, one study specifically targets the Swedish population, which means its findings may not be universally applicable to people from other backgrounds. Additionally, this study does not account for overall dietary habits or lifestyle factors, and it has several other limitations. The other study referenced also shares similar limitations”.
THIP Media Take
PETA’s claim that beer is more beneficial than milk is misleading and not backed by scientific evidence. We understand that PETA advocates for strict veganism and highlights the animal suffering involved in dairy production, such as the separation of calves from their mothers and the conditions male calves face, however beer’s benefits are limited and outweighed by the health risks associated with its alcohol content. Milk is an important source of nutrients that support bone health, muscle growth, and overall well-being. For improving health, drinking milk in moderation is far more advantageous than opting for beer. Additionally, excessive consumption of any substance can be harmful, and people are less likely to overconsume milk compared to beer, which carries a higher risk of accidents and potentially life-threatening situations. It’s important to make wise choices when it comes to health.
This story was originally published by THIP Media, and republished by News18 as part of the Shakti Collective.
