Regular Beer
The most widely consumed alcoholic drink in the world, made by fermenting barley with hops. The key physiological question: how does beer affect blood sugar? The glycemic index does not apply because of the alcohol, but its liquid maltose and empty alcohol calories make it a major contributor to liver and belly fat.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
From a public-health and metabolic point of view, it is best avoided or replaced with healthier alternatives; alcohol disrupts fat burning and puts a strain on the liver.
Best preparation methods
If it is drunk in a social setting, never drink it on an empty stomach, and drink plenty of extra water to limit dehydration and strain on the body.
Important Nutritional Note
⚠️ Important clinical warning: alcohol suppresses glucose production by the liver (gluconeogenesis), which puts people with diabetes who use insulin or sulphonylureas at risk of a sudden, severe low blood sugar hours after drinking.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (330 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 43 kcal | 141.9 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g | 1.6 g |
| Carbohydrate | 3.6 g | 11.9 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 3.6 g | 11.9 g |
| Fat | 0 g | 0 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0 g | 0 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 43 kcal per 100 g, ranking 1 of 2 in Alcoholic drinks (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Regular Beer good for weight loss?
Yes. Regular Beer is very low in calories (43 kcal per 100 g), so you can eat a generous amount to add volume and fullness to a meal without many calories.
How does Regular Beer affect blood sugar?
Regular Beer contains only 3.6 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, so the glycemic index does not apply and its direct effect on blood sugar is minimal. The meal’s effect depends on what you eat with it, such as bread, rice or sweetened sauces.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Regular Beer?
A typical 330 g portion of Regular Beer provides about 142 kcal, 1.6 g protein, 11.9 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat and 0 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.