August 3/Press Association Mediapoint -- New research claims that beer can help people lose weight -- when consumed in moderation.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) said a third of men and women wrongly believe that beer has more calories than other alcoholic drinks.

Swapping wine for beer for just one week would save as many calories as a half-hour jog, Camra claims.

Chief executive Mike Benner said, "It is great news to see the myth of the beer belly finally laid to rest. The main message we are putting forward today is that, as a low-alcohol drink, beer can supplement a healthy lifestyle if consumed in a responsible manner."

Brewing expert professor Charlie Bamforth said, "For years, beer has been blighted by a reputation for being more fattening than other alcoholic drinks when in reality the exact opposite is true.

"The major source of calories in any alcoholic drink is the alcohol itself, and because beer is the drinks category with the lowest average alcohol content, it is also lowest in calories.''

The study was published to mark the opening day of Camra's Great British Beer Festival in London.  

From the August 4, 2010, Prepared Foods' Daily News
For more of the latest news from the food and beverage industry, visit Prepared Foods' Daily News