Misconception: It is dark.
If you closely observe and look right in the light, you can see that it’s a very dark red, which is the result of processing that happens to grains. In fact, Guinness is a stout beer that is neither dark brown nor black.
In any case, since the holiday is on Monday, opting for Guinness on this St. Paddy’s Day would be a wise decision if you’re in a celebratory mood but prefer a more relaxed experience. Guinness has a modest alcohol content of only 4.2%, whereas an average beer typically contains 5% ABV. In reality, it possesses a lower alcohol volume compared to a usual draft beer. Guinness is not more alcoholic than the majority of other beers. Misconception: Guinness is rich in alcohol.
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Myth: Guinness is high in calories. Right? Not so fast. A 12-ounce serving of Guinness sets you back 125 calories–just 15 more than the same serving of Bud Light. Alcohol is beer’s primary calorie source, and since Guinness is only 4.2% ABV, it’s comparatively low in calories. The deep hue and sweetness come from small amounts of roasted barley used in the brewing process. And that dense, velvety consistency? Most beers are carbonated with carbon dioxide, but Guinness employs a blend of CO2 and nitrogen. Nitrogen bubbles are smaller than CO2 bubbles, resulting in a smoother “mouthfeel,” as beer enthusiasts refer to it. Guinness, a stout-style beer, is renowned for its velvety consistency, dark hue, and flavorful, caramel-infused taste.
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Excessive drinking causes a slew of health problems, including liver damage and several types of cancer. However, other studies have shown a correlation between moderate alcohol consumption and an increased risk of breast cancer. At the same time, research suggests that light drinkers in middle age gain less weight than those who abstain. Dozens of studies have shown an association between moderate drinking and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or heart attack, for men and women respectively. Some experts actually believe that moderate alcohol consumption, including spirits, wine, and beer, can be good for you. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that beer drinking has any actual health benefits. The catchy marketing slogan “Guinness is Good for You” was actually born as a half-myth in the late 1920s.
If you want to improve your health, you’d probably be better off eating something green like spinach or kale, rather than downing too few pints. But if you’d like, you can go ahead and have two Guinness at the bottom of the line.