Scientists find benefits in beer and danger in soft drinks

As one of the nation's favourite tipples, beer is a rich source of dietary silicon which can help to cut the chance of developing the brittle-bone disease osteoporosis,.

But not all beers are the same; those containing malted barley and hops have higher silicon content than those made from wheat. Some light lagers made from grains like corn have the lowest levels of silicon, according to the study from researchers at University of California, Davis.

Their research, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture today, involved examining 100 commercial beers.

Dr Claire Bowring, from the National Osteoporosis Society, said the findings mirrored those of previous studies but warned: "While low quantities of alcohol may appear to have bone density benefits, higher intakes have been show to decrease bone strength, with an alcohol intake of more than two units per day actually increasing the risk of breaking a bone.

"There are also many other health concerns linked with alcohol which cannot be ignored."

Catherine Collins, a dietician at St George's Healthcare NHS Trust in London, said there was no recommended daily amount of silicon people should be consuming. "Silica may well contribute to bone health but in a minor way."

The report comes at the same time scientists have warned that sugary soft drinks can dramatically increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

As little as two soft drinks a week can almost double the chances of developing the disease. Scientists believe the drinks' high sugar content may be responsible.

Pancreatic cancer is relatively rare – affecting around 7,600 people a year in the UK – making the absolute risk from soft drinks small. The research was part of a 60,500-person health study in Singapore.