She Strengthens

The Battle for Happy Hour Supremacy: Cider vs. Beer

For decades, beer has reigned supreme as America’s favorite adult beverage. However, hard apple cider is rapidly gaining popularity, with the U.S. market growing by over 8% in recent years. So, what sets these two drinks apart, and which one might be the healthier choice for your next happy hour?

A Brief History of Cider

Cider has been a staple in Britain since before the Norman invasion, with the Brits consuming nearly 40% of the world’s cider production. While its popularity waned in the U.S. after German lagers were introduced in the 19th century, cider has made a comeback in recent years, thanks in part to festivals like Pour the Core and New York Cider Week.

Ingredients and Composition

Hard cider is made by fermenting fruit, usually apples, with sugar and yeast. This process gives cider its unique antioxidant profile, including vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids. As a fruit-based drink, cider is also gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those who can’t drink beer.

Beer, on the other hand, is made with yeast, hops, water, and cereals, providing a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including calcium.

The Health Benefits of Cider

Cider’s antioxidant profile has been shown to have potential health benefits, including protecting against certain types of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. The amount of protection depends on the apple variety used, with some ciders containing higher levels of polyphenols than others.

The Health Benefits of Beer

While beer may not have the same level of polyphenols as cider, it does contain flavonoids, which provide antioxidant protection to cells. Moderate beer consumption has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and may have similar benefits to wine and cider in terms of cancer prevention.

Sugar, Carbs, and Calories

One significant difference between beer and cider is the amount of sugar in each bottle. Beer is essentially sugar-free, while cider can be quite high in sugar due to the natural sugars present in the fruit. The sugar content of cider varies widely depending on the fermentation process, with some brands containing up to 20 grams of sugar per serving.

The Verdict

When it comes to choosing between beer and cider, both have their advantages and disadvantages. Cider’s higher antioxidant profile and gluten-free status make it an attractive option, but its high sugar content is a drawback. Beer, on the other hand, is lower in sugar but may not have the same level of antioxidants.

Ultimately, the key to enjoying either beer or cider is moderation. One bottle or glass can provide a good dose of antioxidants, so learn to savor just one drink. Whether you prefer beer, cider, or wine, the most important thing is to enjoy it responsibly and in moderation. Cheers!