Are Beer Drinkers Less Healthy Eaters Than Wine or Spirits Lovers?

A U.S. study suggests that beer drinkers tend to lead less healthy lifestyles compared to consumers of wine, spirits, or a combination of alcoholic beverages. Surveying 1,900 adults about their drinking and eating habits, researchers found that beer drinkers smoke more, exercise less, and consume more calories. They also scored lowest on the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)—a measure of overall diet quality—earning just 49 out of 100 points. By comparison, wine drinkers scored 55, while those who drink spirits—or a combination of alcoholic beverages—scored about 53.