Actually at one time, beer was safer to drink than water because the alcohol killed off bacteria that were floating in the water source. Today, certain beers and wines have been found to have a plethora of vitamins and minerals in them. Fermentation unlocks certain nutrients, even in breadmaking and the process for making chocolate and coffee. Even Quinine, which has been used in mixed drinks, can be used medicinally. It is when you overindulge that one runs into problems.