Spending time at the pub can keep you healthy!

Pub | Uk Pubs | Posted 2019.08.30

Yes, you read that correctly…

The general public of the UK are seemingly happiest when they are at their local pub drinking a beer according to a feature published in The Independent. Drinking is, however, more often than not painted as something that is of great detriment to our health and well-being, making frequent pub visits somewhat frowned upon. Due to this stigma, many pub lovers constantly have to come up with valid excuses as to why they need to pop into their local inn for a cold one. Now, thanks to research conducted by psychologists at the University of Oxford, it is as easy as saying you are going for health reasons.

You will be happier

While conducting their research, the Oxford psychologists found that as many as 33% of people do not make time to socialize with friends at least once a week which often leads to increased social isolation. By visiting your local at least once a week your social engagement and trust of the local community will increase significantly. According to the study entitled ‘Functional Benefits of (Modest) Alcohol Consumption’ the role of alcohol in triggering the endorphin system, which promotes social bonding, should not be overlooked. This social bonding protects against especially mental illness and can greatly reduce the prevalence of anxiety, stress, and depression.

Moderation is key

You can only expect to enjoy the wellness benefits of visiting a pub if your alcohol consumption is moderate. Drinking excessively can affect your health and well-being in numerous ways. Not only are you bound to pick up a few extra pounds but you can also face more severe health issues such as compromised cardiac and liver health, skin conditions, and even mental health concerns. According to the NHS, moderate drinking is defined as up to 4 alcoholic beverages a day for men and 3 for women and no more than 14 a week for men, and seven for women. As long as you can limit the alcohol you consume during your pub visits you will continue to enjoy the many benefits of it.

Your pub visits can have physical benefits too

Apart from boosting your mental well-being, visiting your pub on a regular basis (if you limit your alcohol consumption) can also contribute to improved general health. According to research conducted at the University of Sheffield, drinking moderate amounts of alcohol can reduce joint inflammation and swelling making it easier to move around, especially as you become older. If red wine is your drink of choice you may experience added benefits such as a reduced risk of prostate- breast-, and colon cancer as well as a healthier heart and brain.

Spending time in a pub with your friends is bound to be enjoyable, especially when you know that your overall health and well-being will also benefit from it. As long as you drink in moderation there really is no excuse why you can’t pop into your nearest pub from time to time.