Could regular beer consumption protect against Alzheimer's?

An ingredient found in beer could help slow the progression of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, according to new research.

The Daily Mail reports that a chemical in hops - known as xanthohumol or XN - could protect the brain from experiencing oxidative damage, which is commonly associated with such conditions.

Dr Jiangou Fang of Lanzhou University, where the study took place, said: "In traditional Chinese medicine, hops have been used to treat a variety of ailments for centuries. 

"The presence of a high concentration of XN above in beers might be linked to the epidemiological observation of the beneficial effect of regular beer drinking."

However, the latest news is likely to cause some confusion, as only recently the NHS' top dementia expert professor Alistair Burns called on the public to make drinking less alcohol a new year's resolution to help them fight off dementia.

Prof Burns suggested that a number of studies indicated that a large level of alcohol consumption could increase the risk of developing the condition.

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