Oregon:Most beers contain a unique compound which inhibit cancer causing enzymes.

Scientists at Oregon State University say the substance found in hops called xanthohumol can help the body detoxify carcinogens and inhibit tumour growth. It also appears to be a powerful antioxidant with the ability to reduce bad cholesterol.

Most beers are low in hops, except for porters, ales and stouts. As a result a ‘health beer’ with enhanced levels of the compound is being developed. ‘

Fred Stevens, one of the Oregon researchers said that they could not definitively say that beer prevented cancer.

But he added: ‘Most beer has low levels of this compound, and its absorption in the body is limited. We need to discover how to increase the levels or use it as a nutritional supplement.’