Yup, it’s another one of these. I’ve already spent some time talking about how silly these studies can be, but what the hell? Anything that makes me feel good about my health while consuming beer is good in my book.

Silicon, present to varying degrees in various beers, has been linked to higher bone-mineral density in animals–including, of course, in humans. So researchers at the University of California at Davis set out to analyze 100 commercial beers to determine silicon content. They report their findings this week in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.

[...]

“The wine guys have stolen the moral high ground,” said Charles Bamforth, a biochemist and professor of food science at UC Davis who also goes by the title Anheuser-Busch Endowed Professor. He adds:

‘The reality is there’s now growing consensus around the world that the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages that counters atherosclerosis is alcohol. It doesn’t matter if it’s wine or beer. I resent the stance that people take that wine is better. It’s not.’

Bamforth’s team’s findings suggest that raw ingredients and brewing techniques determine how much silicon is in the final pour. They found that malt, a sprouted grain, is the greatest source of silicon; starches in sprouted barley or wheat break down into sugars that yeast converts into alcohol. (Barley contains even more silicon than wheat.)

That’s it! Beer will save the world! It will increase life expectancy! We’ve found the fountain of youth! Drink up, everyone! I’ll be in the street toasting to silicone and malty goodness! Can’t wait to be 189 years old and still downing porters. Wooooo!!!

cnet news — Silicon: It’s good for you, especially in beer