On the 4th of November, 2014, I was privileged to attend Nigeria's first Beer & Health Symposium organized by Nigerian Breweries Plc.
Here are 10 of the most striking things I learned from the symposium.
1. SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO WATER.
In medieval Europe, Beer was a safe and tasty alternative to often-contaminated water that transmitted diseases.
2. THE 'HONEYMOON' CONCEPT
It was the accepted practice in ancient Babylonia 4000 years ago that for a month after the wedding, the bride's father would supply his son-in-law with all the mead he could drink. Mead is a honey beer, and because their calendar was lunar based, the period was called the 'honey moon' – or what we know today as the honeymoon.
3. THE 'RULE OF THUMB'
Before thermometers were invented, brewers would dip a thump or finger into the mix to find the right temperature for adding yeast. Too cold, and the yeast would not grow. Too hot, and the yeast would die. This thumb in the beer is where we get the phrase 'rule of thumb'.
4. THE TERM 'BERSERK' STARTED WITH BEER CONSUMPTION
After consuming a bucket or even two of a vibrant brew they called 'ale', the Vikings would head fearlessly into battle often without armor or even shirts. In fact, the term 'berserk' means 'bare shirt' in Norse, and eventually took on the meaning of their wild battles."
5. BREWING STARTED IN THE MONASTERY!
Beer is as old as one could possibly think, dating as far back as 7,000 years ago and monks in the monastery initially did the brewing.
6. 90% WATER
Water accounts for more then 90% of beer content, so it supports hydration. Water is purified in the brewery to make it brew prefect. Also, water can infuse beer with unique flavor, particularly when it comes from a source such as a well.
7. BREAD SOAKED IN WATER
Beer began as a drink made from soaking bread in water and allowing it to ferment. A diet of bread and water was often used as punishment.
8. BEER BREWING AS A HOUSEHOLD CHORE
Beer brewing used to be a part of the household chores done mostly by females.
9. BEER & STRONG BONES
Beer helps with strong bones formation because it contains the best source of silicon and it protects bone mineral density.
10. BEER IS HEALTHY
Moderate consumption of beer can be part of a healthy lifestyle. Beer could reduce blood pressure, heart disease and the risk of diabetes. It also doesn't lead to weight gain or 'beer belly'. In reality, lack of exercise causes weight gain.
PS: Sorry guys my blogging would be a bit OFF and ON as from now on till next Thursday when I would be done with my examinations in school, so please wish me LUCK! and SUCCESS! Sure would make it up to you guys, please do bare with me for now, and God bless *winks* fashmaverick loves y'all.
