Is a Glass of Wine or Beer Healthier?

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Moderate consumption of alcohol—whether it’s beer, wine, or a shot of ­tequila—has been found to guard against heart disease, improve cholesterol levels, and even boost cognitive function. But in terms of additional benefits, you might be surprised to learn that beer comes out on top, according to ­Andrea Giancoli, R.D., spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Wine contains the antioxidant ­resveratrol, but, ­says Giancoli, “You’d need to drink much more than a glass or two of wine [a day] to obtain enough to be beneficial.” Meanwhile, compared to wine, “beer contains more ­ B vitamins, including folate and niacin, plus silicon, which is associated with better bone health. Moderate beer consumption also seems to lower the risk of kidney stones in men. It’s even got a little bit of fiber!”