HAPPY NATIONAL BEER DAY!!!

It's a staple beverage for every bar and restaurant, and National Beer Day is a perfect time to have some fun with your guests and let them know they're making healthy life choices by drinking beer (in moderation, of course).

So kick back, grab a cold one and learn about seven health benefits to drinking beer (and be sure to share these with your guests!):

Here are 7 health benefits of drinking beer

1. Beer compounds might prevent cancer

We did a post on this recently, but scientists are following a lead that the acids, humulones and lupulones found in the hops could prevent inflammatory illnesses and even stop or prevent cancer.

2. Bar regulars live healthier, happier lives

People who are "regulars" at their local bars and pubs are more likely to live healthier and happier lives. According to psychologists and anthropologists, it's about building community. People who go to their smaller local venues are more likely to drink in moderation (providing the other beer health benefits listed here) and have a greater sense of community (making them happier people).

3. Beer can prevent type 2 diabetes

Dutch researchers looked at 38,000 men and found that men who weren't big drinkers and started to drink beer regularly (in moderation) were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Similarly, a study done by the American Diabetes Association found a "U-shaped relationship" with a whopping ~30% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes among moderate alcohol drinkers compared to heavy or abstinent drinkers.

4. Beer can keep you looking, feeling young

It's been found that beer can boost the potency and effectiveness of Vitamin E, which is a major antioxidant in your body. Vitamin E also helps keep your skin looking smooth and slows down the aging process. As for light vs. dark beer, dark is better when it comes to antioxidants.

5. Beer can keep your brain sharp

Compounds found in beer can also starve off Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, according to the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. Xanthohumol, a substance found in hops, may slow the development of neurodegenerative diseases, according to Chinese researchers. It's also been found to boost creativity and problem solving. Again, just drink in moderation. Long-term alcohol abuse can actually greatly harm brain activity.

6. Beer can lower your risk of heart disease

Wine is typically lauded for it's anti-heart disease special powers, but let's not forget wonderful beer. According to some Italian researchers, moderate beer drinkers had a 42% lower risk of heart disease compared to non-drinkers.