The Contemporary Man Magazine june 2018

Is It Worth the Switch?
Depends what you're drinking it for, says Anne Becerra, Beer Curator and Director of
Treadwell Park. Plain and simple: Beer has carbs, and if that's your one and only criteria
for how you choose what to consume, then you should probably pick another beverage if
you want to enjoy your sip.
"If you're choosing to drink beer because of the amazing flavors and styles that are
available, the key (as with anything) is balance," says Becerra. "A full flavored, complex
craft beer offers an experience — something that's enjoyable and satisfying. When you
really pay attention to what you're drinking and savor each sip, generally you won't need
as much to feel fulfilled."
Ask yourself: How long am I going to be drinking for, and what's my mission here? If it's
Game Day and you know you'll be sipping for hours, low-carb options will be better for
your waistline. “Beer is something that’s meant to be enjoyed, and while it’s great to cut
down on calories and carbs, ultimately you want your beer to be refreshing and taste
great,” says Andrews.
Since low-carb and light beers aren't offering the World Series of flavor, do yourself a
favor and switch out for seltzer water every few. You'll still get the satisfaction of a
carbonated-sip, without the calories. However, Becerra wants you to try and reevaluate
that marathon, beer slamming mentality.
"Slamming multiple 'low-carb' beers with little flavor may not bring you the same amount
of enjoyment contribute that you'll get from drinking one or two beers you genuinely
love," she cautions. "Instead, use a nice glass, notice the aromas, pay attention to flavor,
pick beers you love and enjoy them."
If you do plan on drinking for an extended period of time, think about switching away
from beer altogether, suggests Manuel Villacorta, MS, RD and founder of Whole Body
Reboot. "Wine is lower in carbs than beer," he says. "Spirits such as whiskey and vodka
contain zero carbs, but be careful for sweet drinks.