Beer does a body good?

Long blamed for big bellies and bad behavior, could beer finally be shedding its bad reputation? In a newly-published study, food science researchers from the University of California have found beer to be rich in silicon, a nutrient required for proper bone growth and development.The Cal scientists evaluated 100 commercial beers and found that their silicon content ranged from 6.4 mg/L to 56.5 mg/L, with an average of 30 mg/L. (Note: While there is no official recommendation for daily silicon consumption, researchers say Americans consume between 20 and 50 mg of silicon each day.)

So, which brews were determined to be the best for your bones? Beers containing high levels of malted barley and hops, such as dark and pale ales,  were the richest in healthful silicon, according to researcher Charles Bamforth, lead author of the study.

The bottom line: Turns out, that Friday night pint can be a boon for your bones. Don't use this scientific discovery as a green light to go on a bender or completely abandon milk (a more healthful bone-builder). Instead, think of it as an interesting, nice-to-know conversation piece  -- and as always, use common sense and remember to drink in moderation. For more alcohol insights, read our recent reports on champagne and wine.