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How Much Sodium is in Beer?

We all love beer. But have you ever stopped to think about how much sodium it has?

This blog post will guide you through the science of understanding the high and low sodium levels found in different beers, and the potential impact on your health.

Let’s start by running through what sodium is. Of course, you know that too much of it can be bad for you, but did you know that some beers contain more than others? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this article.

What is Sodium?

Sodium is a mineral found naturally in many foods, as well as in some types of beer. It helps with various bodily functions and can even help maintain your balance of fluids.

Too much sodium can be bad for your health though – so it’s important to check how much of it is in the beer you’re drinking, especially if you’re watching your intake!

How Much Sodium Is In Beer?

The amount of sodium in beer varies depending on the type and brand. Generally speaking, light beers tend to have lower levels of sodium compared to traditional lagers or ales. That doesn’t mean they all contain drastically different levels – but they do tend to vary. Here’s an overview of some popular beers and their sodium content:

  • Corona Light: 10mg per 12 ounces
  • Sam Adams Lager: 13mg per 12 ounces
  • Heineken Light: 22mg per 12 ounces
  • Guinness Draught: 18mg per 12 ounces
  • Budweiser Select 55: 1mg per 12 ounces
  • Sierra Nevada Pale Ale: 25mg per 12 ounces

You may notice that there are significant differences between light beer versions and regular versions from the same brewery – so it pays to do some research or just stick with lighter options when possible!

Different Types Of Beer And Their Sodium Content

It’s important to note that different styles and brands of beer will have varying amounts of sodium – so make sure to check the label before drinking if you’re limiting your intake. For instance, most wheat beers tend to have more sodium than pale ales or lagers. Some craft beers also contain higher levels than mass-market varieties (such as Budweiser).

Here are some average ranges for specific types of beer:

  • Light Lagers & Pilsners: 10-20mg/12 oz
  • Traditional Lagers & Pilsners: 15-35mg/12 oz
  • Wheat Beers & Hefeweizens: 20-50mg/12 oz
  • Pale Ales & IPAs: 20-40 mg/12 oz
  • Dark Ales & Stouts: 30-70 mg/12 oz

As you can see, there are large differences between types and brands – so it’s worth checking labels carefully or doing a bit of research beforehand if you’re trying to cut back on sodium intake from your diet!

Impact Of Sodium On Health

Too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and other health conditions – so it’s best not to consume too much (although we all know a few beers won’t hurt).

The recommended daily intake for adults over 19 years old is up 2000 milligrams (or 2 grams) – however this number drops significantly if someone already suffers from hypertension or another related condition (defined as 1500 milligrams or 1g).

People who are pregnant should also be aware that their recommended intake should also be lower than usual (1800 milligrams).

Knowing this information leads us onto our next point… *Limiting Sodium Intake*

If you find yourself consuming more than one alcoholic beverage a day then it’s important to look out for low-sodium options (light lagers, pale ales etc.) – otherwise, your daily consumption might exceed recommended guidelines quickly!

There are even low-alcohol beers available that contain less than 5 milligrams of sodium per serving – perfect for those who watch their edibles carefully!

Conclusion

Ultimately, there’s no need to completely cut out having a few drinks here and there because most light beers still provide some level of nutrition benefits (without being overly salty).

The key message here is that being aware and monitoring your consumption levels is always important when considering overall health – not just when drinking alcohol! Cheers everyone 🙂

Author Image Fabian
I’m Fabian, homebrewer and beer taster. I’m also the editor of Beer100. I love travelling the world and trying out new handcraft beer and different beer styles. I’m not an expert in brewing beer, but I know a few things about beer, which I share on this blog. If you need help or have a question, please comment below.

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