It’s a well-known fact that a lot of beer is consumed in the Czech Republic. Its production has a long tradition in our country. This tasty brew was already being made in the 10th century. According to historical sources, the Břevnov Monastery was founded in 993 on the orders of Prince Boleslav II. And that’s where they supposedly brewed beer. Today, it is brewed in many breweries across the country. So every Czech should know at least the basics about beer!

What’s in it?

The main ingredient for brewing beer is water. A full 92 percent. Other essential ingredients are barley malt and hops. Most of us know that. What health benefits does beer derive from these ingredients? These include minerals (mainly magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and silicon), vitamins (B complex), folic acid, and certain trace elements.

How does it benefit us?

Beer is a very suitable beverage for “washing down” richer dishes. It is ideal for roasted or grilled meats or duck and complements them very well. Beer has a positive effect on our digestive system, protecting us from the formation of gallstones and kidney stones and high cholesterol levels. It also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Provided, of course, that we don’t overdo it!

It’s alcoholic!

Before we start drinking beer, we must first and foremost realize that even though it provides our body with certain healthy substances, it is primarily an alcoholic beverage! If we don’t drink it in moderation, we naturally expose ourselves to all the risks that excessive alcohol consumption poses to the body. These include serious diseases of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and nervous system. The amount of alcohol depends on the type of beer. 10° beers contain about 4 percent, “12°” beers about 5 percent. But stronger ones are produced, of course. Every body breaks down alcohol at a different rate. It’s a very individual matter, and several factors play a role. For example, physical build and overall health. Gender also plays a role; women generally break down alcohol more slowly and tolerate it less well. We should keep this in mind before we start drinking. Don’t plan anything important after “refreshments,” and don’t drive! This way, we’ll avoid many unpleasant situations and can enjoy our “beer” in peace.