Osteoporosis is a condition where bone density is lost courtesy of depleting calcium supplies and the odds have fractured bones are gained. New research has indicated that woman can stave off the condition and the possible dental health side effects of tooth loss by drinking 8 to 16 ounces of beer a day, depending the stage of a woman's menopausal cycle.
Osteoporosis is a condition that can impact a person's entire bone structure and the jawbone is no exception to the rule. The mandible is where teeth are supposed to be firmly anchored, however individuals suffering from osteoporosis can experience dental problems (including but not limited to dental abscesses, tooth loss and gum disease). Research released by Cambridge University has indicated that women that consume small amounts of beer on a daily basis may be able to naturally increase bone density and gain a bit of protection against the disease.
Beer and Dental Health
In the past, the mysteries surrounding dental health were plentiful, however years of scientific discovery have proved one thing, too much alcohol can cause slews of dental problems. Drinking liquor (including beer) in excess can quickly destroy oral health and general well-being as consuming too much booze is associated dental problems such as tooth erosion, dry mouth and upping the odds of getting throat or mouth cancer. Despite the problems associated with imbibing too much, when consumed in moderation, some liquor can do a body good.
Professor Jonathan Powell of Cambridge University announced the osteoporosis fighting benefits of beer. His research has found that ethanol, a psychoactive drug, one of the oldest recreational drugs and the compound that gives beer its' kick, prevents bone loss as it is a great source of dietary silicon. That silicon is present in beer as absorbable orthosilicic acid and can encourage new bone growth. It is the structure of beer that can help women "battle the falling oestrogen levels and bone deterioration that accompany the aging process," (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/18/beer-women-osteoporosis-study-_n_1018387.html).
According to the research, beer is the best food source for the source because of the silicon absorption rate. Humans need about 8 mcg of dietary silicon daily, the equivalent found in 16 ounces of beer. In order for women to get the best benefits of the food, less processed options like ale (as opposed to lager) are recommended.