Beer is a good source of silicon which the body can easily absorb and use. Silicon is a trace element that’s important not only for bone growth but for building healthy tendons and ligaments. It’s the hops in beer that contains the most silicon, but malt is also a good source – with the lighter colored malts having greater quantities than darker ones. The good news is the silicon found in beer is available in a form the body can readily use.
It may not be just the silicon that makes drinking beer a positive for building stronger bones. Some studies have shown that drinking moderate amounts of other types of alcohol that aren’t high in silicone also improves bone density and protects against osteoporosis. Both beer and wine boost bone health in men and women whereas hard liquor may have the opposite effect. Alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine may increase bone density because they increase estrogen levels, and estrogen is a hormone that builds bone density.