What Is Fibremaxxing – And Why You Should Be Doing It

In the ever-evolving world of health and nutrition trends, a new player has entered the chat: fibremaxxing. 

You may have seen it mentioned on social media or in health forums, but what exactly is fibremaxxing, and is it worth your attention?

Let’s get into the real benefits of this growing trend, and why boosting your fibre intake might just be one of the smartest things you can do for your overall health.

What Is Fibremaxxing?

Fibremaxxing is the practice of intentionally increasing the amount of dietary fibre in your daily food intake, often well beyond the basic recommendations. Think of it as a nutritional upgrade for your gut and general health.

While the UK government recommends 30g of fibre per day for adults, many of us barely get two-thirds of that. Fibremaxxing aims to fix this by incorporating high-fibre foods into as many meals and snacks as possible, using both natural and sometimes fortified sources.

The Health Benefits of Fibremaxxing

1. Better Gut Health

Fibre acts as fuel for your gut microbiome, feeding beneficial bacteria that help you digest food and support your immune system. Soluble fibre also helps to regulate bowel movements and may ease symptoms of IBS and constipation.

2. Improved Satiety and Weight Control

High-fibre foods are more filling, which can help reduce overeating. By slowing down digestion, fibre helps regulate appetite and can support sustainable weight loss or weight maintenance.

3. Stabilised Blood Sugar Levels

Soluble fibre slows the absorption of sugar, which can help keep blood glucose levels stable. This is especially beneficial for people with diabetes or those aiming to avoid energy crashes throughout the day.

4. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases

A high-fibre diet has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even certain types of cancer, particularly bowel cancer.

5. Improved Cholesterol

Soluble fibre (found in oats, beans, and apples, for example) can help lower LDL cholesterol by binding to it in the digestive tract and helping the body excrete it.

How to Fibremaxx Your Diet

Here are a few practical ways to embrace the fibremaxxing lifestyle:

Start your day with oats or wholegrain cereals.

Add beans or lentils to soups, salads, or pasta sauces.

Snack on fruit, veg sticks, or nuts instead of processed snacks.

Swap white bread and pasta for wholegrain or seeded varieties.

Add chia seeds, flaxseed, or psyllium husk to smoothies and yoghurts.

Try high-fibre recipe hacks like blending chickpeas into brownie mix or using grated courgette in porridge.

Things to Watch Out For

While fibremaxxing offers a raft of benefits, increase your intake gradually. Going from low-fibre to fibre-overload overnight can lead to bloating, wind, or cramping. And always remember to stay hydrated, as fibre works best when there’s enough water in your system.

Fibremaxxing isn’t just a passing fad, it’s a smart, evidence-backed way to improve your diet and feel better every day. Whether you're looking to enhance digestion, manage your weight, reduce disease risk or simply feel more energised, fibre could be the key you've been overlooking.

However, some people should seek medical advice before starting on the fibremaxxing diet. 

For example some individuals with certain digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or gastroparesis, a high-fibre diet can actually worsen symptoms like bloating, cramping, and diarrhoea. Sudden increases in fibre can also cause discomfort even in otherwise healthy people, leading to wind and abdominal pain.

Those on restricted diets, recovering from surgery, or with certain nutrient absorption issues may also need to be cautious. It's important to introduce fibre gradually, drink plenty of fluids, and, most importantly, seek personalised advice from a GP or dietitian before making major dietary changes.

As with most trends, balance is key and more fibre isn’t always better for everyone.

The Real Benefits of Olive Oil – What Does the Science Actually Say?

Years ago most British houses had a small bottle of olive oil of uncertain origin and uncertain age. 

It was mainly sold in chemist's shops and used primarily for medicinal purposes such as softening earwax. It was not a common ingredient in British kitchens. 

But in recent years, olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, has taken centre stage in countless health blogs and TikTok wellness trends. 

We've all seen "news" reports on online magazines claiming that you should drink olive oil. 

From glowing skin to heart health, people claim that drinking a spoonful a day is a miracle cure-all. But how much of this is hype, and what does the science really tell us about the benefits of olive oil?

So, let’s break it down.

What Is Olive Oil, Really?

Olive oil is a fat extracted from the fruit of the olive tree (Olea europaea), a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean Basin. The highest quality variety, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), is made by cold-pressing olives without employing heat or chemicals. It retains more of the natural compounds that give it flavour, aroma, and health benefits.

1. Heart Health and Cholesterol Levels

What people claim: Olive oil lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and raises "good" cholesterol (HDL), reducing the risk of heart disease.

What science says:

There’s strong evidence supporting olive oil’s heart-protective properties. A major clinical trial called PREDIMED (a large Spanish study) found that people following a Mediterranean diet supplemented with olive oil had a significantly lower risk of major cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack.

Why? EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which has been shown to improve lipid profiles and reduce inflammation.

2. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

What people claim: Olive oil reduces inflammation and fights ageing.

What science says:

Olive oil is packed with polyphenols, especially oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen. These polyphenols help reduce markers of inflammation in the body, which may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases like arthritis and Alzheimer’s.

Moreover, antioxidants in olive oil help protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress – the type of cellular damage linked with ageing and disease.

3. Weight Management and Metabolism

What people claim: Drinking olive oil helps you lose weight.

What science says:

Olive oil is still a fat, and it’s calorie-dense, about 120 calories per tablespoon. However, studies suggest replacing unhealthy fats (like trans fats or processed seed oils) with olive oil can support weight management, especially when it's part of a balanced Mediterranean diet.

It may promote satiety, helping you feel full, which could lead to consuming fewer calories overall. But there’s no magical “fat-burning” effect from drinking it straight.

4. Cognitive Function and Brain Health

What people claim: Olive oil prevents dementia and boosts brain power.

What science says:

Some observational studies have linked regular olive oil consumption with better cognitive performance and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, likely due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The PREDIMED study also found potential cognitive benefits, though more research is needed to confirm direct causal links.

5. Skin and Hair Health

What people claim: Drinking olive oil will make your skin glow and your hair shine.

What science says:

Olive oil’s antioxidants and vitamin E can support skin health, but most benefits come from topical application, not drinking it. Consuming healthy fats can improve overall skin hydration, but don’t expect dramatic transformations just by sipping olive oil.

So, Should You Drink It?

While sipping a tablespoon of olive oil isn’t harmful (unless you have a specific medical condition), there’s no need to drink it straight to gain its benefits. Simply cooking with it or drizzling it over salads and vegetables is just as effective, and much more enjoyable!

Key Takeaways

Olive oil (especially extra virgin) is proven to benefit heart health and reduce inflammation.

Its antioxidants offer protection against cellular damage and may support cognitive function.

It’s not a weight-loss miracle, but it’s a smart fat choice in a healthy diet.

There’s no need to drink it, just use it regularly in your cooking.

Olive oil has earned its place as a pillar of the Mediterranean diet for good reason. While some internet claims are exaggerated, the science-backed benefits are impressive enough on their own. Embrace it in moderation, cook with it, and enjoy the flavour.

Coconut Water and Cancer: Separating Facts from Fiction

In recent years, coconut water has enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity, touted as a natural superdrink brimming with health benefits. 

From hydrating your body better than water to replenishing electrolytes post-workout, it’s often marketed as a miracle in a bottle.

Among the more controversial and unproven claims is that coconut water can “beat” cancer. But how much of this is rooted in science, and how much is wishful thinking?

Let’s take a closer look.

What Is Coconut Water?

Coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young, green coconuts. It is not the same as coconut milk, which is made by grating the meat of a mature coconut and mixing it with water. Coconut water is naturally low in calories, rich in potassium, and contains small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

It is often promoted for its:

Hydrating properties

Electrolyte balance

Antioxidant content

Digestive support

The Alleged Anti-Cancer Claims

Online health influencers and some natural health websites have suggested that coconut water has anti-cancer properties. Claims range from it being able to “kill cancer cells” to preventing tumour growth or even curing the disease. These statements are almost always anecdotal, vague, or supported by limited lab-based studies that haven’t been replicated in human trials.

What Does the Science Say?

Let’s be clear: there is no scientific evidence that coconut water can cure or significantly treat cancer in humans.

Some laboratory studies on compounds found in coconuts, not necessarily coconut water, have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. For instance:

Certain polyphenols and cytokinins (like kinetin) in coconut water have been studied for their cellular health benefits.

Antioxidants may play a role in reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases, including cancer.

However, these findings are very early-stage and do not support any clinical use of coconut water in cancer therapy.

In fact, cancer is a complex group of diseases, and treatment typically involves combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, none of which can be replaced by a drink, no matter how healthy it may be.

Why Do These Claims Persist?

Anecdotal stories: Personal experiences of people improving their health while drinking coconut water are often shared widely, but correlation does not equal causation.

Desire for natural cures: Many people seek alternatives to conventional cancer treatment due to fear of side effects or mistrust in pharmaceuticals.

Misinformation online: Social media and unregulated wellness blogs are breeding grounds for exaggerated health claims.

The Real Benefits of Coconut Water

While it can’t beat cancer, coconut water can offer real, modest health benefits when consumed in moderation:

Hydration: Its natural electrolytes make it a good option after light exercise or in hot weather.

Low calorie content: A good alternative to sugary fizzy drinks.

Kidney health: Some studies suggest it may help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

Digestive support: Contains enzymes that may help with digestion.

However, it's not a miracle food. For people undergoing cancer treatment, hydration and nutrition are vital—but always best managed with guidance from oncologists and dietitians.

Bottom Line

Coconut water is a healthy, refreshing beverage that may support overall wellness, but the claim that it can "beat cancer" is not backed by credible scientific evidence. 

It's important to be wary of misinformation, especially when it concerns something as serious as cancer. If you or someone you know is undergoing treatment, always consult with medical professionals before considering alternative or complementary therapies.

Enjoy coconut water for what it is, not for what it’s falsely claimed to be.

Have you come across any surprising health claims online? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll explore the truth behind them!

Give Your Salads a Boost With The Healthy Power of Mixed Nuts and Seeds

If you’re looking to make your salads more exciting, satisfying, and nutritious, there’s one simple trick that works every time: add a generous handful of mixed nuts and seeds. 

Whether you're building a light lunch, a hearty dinner bowl, or a vibrant side dish, these natural gems can take your salad from basic to brilliant with ease. 

Especially if you have become a little bit jaded with lots of easy-to-prepare salads during this heatwave. 

Why Add Nuts and Seeds to Your Salad?

1. Crunch and Texture

Let’s face it, salads can sometimes be a bit samey. A mix of nuts and seeds adds much-needed crunch, which instantly makes your meal more satisfying. 

Toasted almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds all bring unique textures that contrast beautifully with leafy greens, tomatoes, or soft cheeses.

2. Nutrient Boost

Nuts and seeds are nutrient powerhouses. They're rich in:

Healthy fats (especially omega-3s and monounsaturated fats)

Plant-based protein

Fibre for digestive health

Vitamins and minerals like magnesium, vitamin E, selenium, zinc, and B vitamins

Adding them to your salad helps you feel fuller for longer and gives your body essential nutrients it might otherwise be missing.

3. Better Blood Sugar Balance

Combining greens and vegetables with fats and proteins from nuts and seeds slows down digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to manage weight, energy dips, or insulin sensitivity.

4. Heart-Healthy Benefits

Numerous studies have shown that regularly eating nuts and seeds is linked to lower risks of heart disease. They can help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and support overall cardiovascular health, a tasty way to protect your heart!

5. Flavour Enhancer

Each nut and seed has its own personality – sweet, savoury, earthy, creamy or even slightly bitter. Toasted hazelnuts add a lovely warmth, while sesame seeds bring nutty depth. A scattering of mixed seeds can complement everything from balsamic dressings to citrus vinaigrettes.

How to Add Them to Your Salad

Keep it simple: A handful of mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, flax, sesame) adds a lovely crunch.

Go gourmet: Toast some pecans or walnuts or seeds in a dry pan, then drizzle over honey and a pinch of sea salt before tossing into your salad.

Use flavoured nuts: Lightly spiced almonds or tamari-roasted sunflower seeds give your dish a real kick.

Sprinkle on top: Use as a finishing touch after tossing your salad – this keeps them crisp and crunchy.

Great Combinations to Try

Rocket, beetroot, goat’s cheese or feta + walnuts, 

Spinach, orange, fennel + sunflower seeds

Kale, quinoa, roasted veg + pumpkin and flax seeds

Mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomato + toasted almonds

Adding nuts and seeds to your salad isn’t just about flavour or texture – it’s about making every mouthful more enjoyable, satisfying, and nourishing. They’re an easy, affordable way to transform your bowl into a well-balanced meal that your body (and your taste buds) will thank you for.

So next time you’re building a salad, go nuts! And don’t forget the seeds!

Celebrate the Cream of the Crop: UK Dairy Day

Every year, the British dairy industry comes together for a very special event, UK Dairy Day. Held in September at the Telford International Centre, this one-day event is the definitive gathering for everyone involved in the dairy supply chain, from farmers and breeders to vets, processors, academics, and agri-tech innovators. It’s not just a trade show, it’s a celebration of British dairy excellence.

What is UK Dairy Day?

UK Dairy Day is an annual event organised by Holstein UK, bringing together the latest in dairy farming knowledge, innovation, and livestock. 

With free entry, it offers an impressive blend of commercial exhibitions, seminars, technical information, breed shows, and networking opportunities.

It has grown into one of the most important fixtures in the British agricultural calendar, and for good reason. Whether you're milking a herd in Cumbria, researching mastitis prevention in a university lab, or supplying cheese to major supermarkets, this is your event.

Key Highlights of UK Dairy Day

Livestock Shows: The centrepiece is the prestigious National Holstein Show, featuring the UK’s best pedigree cattle. Other breeds like Ayrshire, Jersey, and Brown Swiss also take to the ring.

Seminars & Workshops: Expert-led talks cover critical topics such as animal welfare, milk prices, environmental sustainability, genetics, and the future of British dairy post-Brexit.

Innovation & Technology: From robotic milking systems to AI-based feed analysis, UK Dairy Day is a showcase of the cutting-edge tools transforming the industry.

Networking: Farmers, vets, nutritionists, and agribusiness leaders use the event to forge valuable connections. It’s the place to talk shop, share solutions, and get inspired.

Why UK Dairy Day Matters

The UK dairy sector plays a huge role in our food system and rural economy, producing around 15 billion litres of milk annually. As challenges mount, climate change, rising feed costs, labour shortages, and evolving consumer expectations, events such as UK Dairy Day are vital. They offer a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and celebration.

It’s also an great opportunity to champion British farming. Consumers often don’t realise the level of care, science, and skill involved in dairy production. 

UK Dairy Day reminds us all of the importance of supporting local producers and choosing British dairy whenever possible.

Who Should Attend?

Dairy farmers (large and small scale)

Agricultural students and apprentices

Animal health professionals

Food and drink retailers and buyers

Technology and machinery providers

Anyone with an interest in where their milk, cheese, and butter come from!

When and Where?

Date: Wednesday 11th September 2025 

📍 Venue: Telford International Centre, Shropshire

Entry: Free

UK Dairy Day isn’t just about cows and kit, it's about community, continuity, and celebration. Whether you’re deeply embedded in the industry or just have a passion for British food, it's a day well worth your time. You’ll leave with new ideas, new contacts, and a renewed appreciation for the white stuff.

https://www.ukdairyday.co.uk/exhibit/exhibitors/

Why It’s Better to Eat Food Designed by Chefs or Cooks, Not Food Scientists

Too many additives? 

In an age where convenience often trumps tradition, many of the foods we eat are no longer prepared in a kitchen, but in a lab. 

While food scientists play a critical role in ensuring safety, shelf-life, and consistency, the difference between food designed by chefs and that created by food technologists is more than just semantics, it’s a matter of quality, nutrition, experience, and even trust.

Here’s why choosing food created by chefs and cooks is usually the better option:

1. Taste Comes First, Not Just Formulas

Chefs cook with passion and palates. Their focus is flavour, aroma, and texture — the elements that make a dish not just edible, but memorable. 

Food scientists, on the other hand, often develop recipes using spreadsheets and chemical equations. Their priority? Efficiency, preservation, and cost. That might mean more emulsifiers, artificial flavours, and texture enhancers... and a lot less soul.

2. Real Ingredients Over Additives

When chefs design meals, they use real ingredients: herbs, spices, fresh vegetables, quality proteins. Food scientists often work with powders, concentrates, gums, and stabilisers to replicate a version of food that can survive transport, temperature changes, and long shelf lives. The result? A food-like product that mimics the real thing but rarely delivers on nutrition or taste.

3. Chefs Understand the Human Side of Eating

Eating isn’t just about fuel. It’s about joy, culture, memory, and even therapy. Chefs and cooks craft meals that engage the senses and emotions — food that comforts, excites, and brings people together. Their creations are often inspired by tradition, creativity, and a desire to please diners. Food scientists, in contrast, are rarely designing for love — they’re designing for mass production.

4. Better for Your Health (Most of the Time)

Chef-made food tends to include fewer ultra-processed ingredients. It’s typically cooked fresh and enjoyed shortly after. Lab-designed meals — ready meals, heavily processed snacks, or instant foods, often rely on preservatives, salt, sugar, and fats to make them shelf-stable and palatable. The result is a range of products linked to weight gain, metabolic issues, and gut imbalances.

5. Chefs Are Transparent. Food Labs Often Aren’t

When you watch a chef cook, you can see what goes in. In a restaurant or open kitchen, transparency is part of the process. But when food is made in a lab, ingredients can have names that most of us can't pronounce. Consumers may not even realise what’s in their food or why it was added in the first place.

6. Supporting Craft and Culture

By choosing food made by chefs and cooks, you’re also supporting small businesses, independent restaurants, local producers, and culinary traditions. This means better food economies, more sustainable practices, and a greater diversity of dishes and cultural expression. Food scientists often work for conglomerates with very different priorities: uniformity, scale, and shareholder value.

7. The Intangible: Love, Skill, and Intuition

No algorithm can replicate the intuition of a good cook or the artistry of a great chef. The small adjustments — a splash more lemon, a touch more spice — that elevate a dish from good to exceptional are only possible when food is made by people who truly understand cooking.

Food made by chefs nourishes the body and the spirit. While food scientists have their place in ensuring safety and innovation, they should never replace the role of passionate cooks in our lives. If you want food that’s rich in flavour, full of life, and made with intention, choose meals created by chefs, not machines.

After all, would you rather eat something made with love, or something made for logistics?

Recall Alert: Ritz Peanut Butter Sandwiches Mislabelled as Cheese

On 8 July 2025, Mondelēz Global LLC, the maker of Ritz, issued a voluntary nationwide recall of four carton sizes of Ritz Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches. 

The reason? Individual packets inside were mistakenly labelled as “cheese” although they contained peanut butter, a potentially life-threatening issue for anyone with a peanut allergy. 

What’s Affected

Carton sizes:

8‑pack, 20‑pack, 40‑pack Peanut Butter Sandwich cartons

20‑pack Variety Pack (contains both cheese & peanut butter sandwiches)

Wrapper error: Individually wrapped packs showing “Cheese” may actually contain peanut butter 

Best‑when‑used‑by dates: Range from 1 Nov 2025 to 22 Jan 2026, depending on carton size and plant code 

Note: Outer cartons correctly state “contains peanuts” and are, therefore, not misleading.

Why This Matters

Allergen risk: Peanuts rank among the most serious food allergens. If someone expecting cheese eats a mislabelled peanut butter snack, the result could be anaphylactic shock 

No reported cases yet: Thankfully, no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported, but the warning remains critical .

What You Should Do

Check your pantry for any affected Ritz sandwich crackers matching the recalled pack sizes and dates.

Discard or return them to the store or follow the procedure outlined by Mondelēz.

Contact Mondelēz at 1‑844‑366‑1171, available 24/7, for more assistance for the USA and rest of the world or call 0800 818181 in the UK.

Behind the Scenes

The error was traced to defective film packaging rolls from a supplier 

Mondelēz has pledged corrective measures to prevent repeat incidents 

Final Thoughts

This recall highlights just how crucial accurate food labelling is for public health, especially in the case of major allergens like peanuts. Even a small labelling mistake can carry serious consequences. Fortunately, the company and regulators have acted swiftly to protect consumers.

If you have a peanut allergy or prepare food for someone who does, be extra cautious: double-check even seemingly familiar foods. And always stay alert to recall notices.

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Caring for Your Digestive System and Bowels While Taking Antibiotics – Especially in Hot Weath

Antibiotics are powerful medications that fight bacterial infections, but they can also wreak havoc on your digestive system and bowels. 

Add in the challenges of very hot weather, and you’ve got a perfect storm for dehydration, tummy troubles and fatigue. If you're taking antibiotics this summer, here's how to protect your gut and stay as comfortable and healthy as possible.

Why Antibiotics Affect Your Digestive System

Antibiotics don’t just target the bad bacteria causing your infection, they can also disrupt the good bacteria in your gut. 

This imbalance may lead to:

Bloating

Diarrhoea

Nausea

Loss of appetite

Thrush (oral or intestinal)

Maintaining a healthy digestive system while on antibiotics is crucial to help your body recover and reduce side effects.

The Added Risk of Hot Weather

High temperatures can make everything worse. Hot weather increases your risk of:

Dehydration, especially if you have diarrhoea or aren’t eating much

Loss of electrolytes, which can upset your stomach even more

Heat exhaustion, which may feel worse if your digestive system is already irritated

Top Tips to Support Your Gut During Antibiotic Treatment in Hot Weather

1. Stay Hydrated – but Do It Right

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, not just when you’re thirsty.

Use oral rehydration salts (ORS) if you’re experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting.

Coconut water or drinks with electrolytes (low in sugar) can help too.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.

2. Eat Light, Gut-Friendly Meals

Choose easy-to-digest, nourishing foods such as:

Plain boiled rice

Steamed vegetables

Skinless chicken or fish

Oats, bananas and plain yoghurt

Avoid heavy, spicy or fried foods that can irritate your stomach.

Eat smaller meals more often rather than large portions.

3. Take Probiotics or Eat Fermented Foods

Probiotics can help restore the healthy bacteria in your gut.

Look for live yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut or kimchi.

You can also take a probiotic supplement (check it's suitable to take alongside your antibiotics).

Take probiotics a few hours apart from your antibiotic dose.

4. Keep Cool to Support Your Whole System

Stay in the shade or indoors during peak heat (11am–3pm).

Use fans, damp cloths and cool showers to keep your body temperature down.

Dress in loose, breathable clothing.

5. Keep Moving – Gently

Light movement like stretching or walking helps support digestion.

Avoid strenuous exercise, especially in high heat.

When to Seek Medical Advice

You have persistent or severe diarrhoea (especially if there’s blood or mucus).

You're experiencing signs of dehydration – dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine or confusion.

You develop a rash, severe stomach cramps or new symptoms.

Your symptoms worsen or don't improve after a few days of antibiotics.

Caring for your gut during a course of antibiotics is always important – but even more so during hot weather. With a little extra attention to hydration, food choices and your body's signals, you can protect your digestive system and avoid the worst side effects.

Stay cool, stay nourished, and don’t hesitate to speak to your pharmacist or GP if you're worried, or call 111.

In Praise of the Patron Saint of Beer and Brewers: Saint Arnold of Metz

When we lift a pint of finely brewed ale or toast with a golden lager, we’re partaking in a centuries-old tradition steeped in craftsmanship, community, and even a little sanctity. Few know that behind the foamy head of beer lies a rich history, blessed by none other than the patron saint of brewers, Saint Arnold of Metz.

Who Was Saint Arnold of Metz?

Saint Arnold (or Arnulf) of Metz was a 7th-century bishop, born around 580 AD in what is now France. A man of devout faith and surprising foresight, he was not only a spiritual leader but also a firm believer in the healing power of beer, yes, really.

At the time, clean drinking water was hard to come by. Disease spread easily through contaminated water sources. Arnold, understanding the dangers, encouraged his parishioners to drink beer instead, which, through the brewing process, was far safer. His most famous saying? “From man’s sweat and God’s love, beer came into the world.”

A Miracle Worth Celebrating

One of the miracles attributed to Saint Arnold further cements his place in brewing lore. During a pilgrimage, Arnold and his companions ran out of drinking water. He is said to have prayed over a small remaining amount of beer, which then miraculously multiplied and refreshed the entire party. It’s little wonder that brewers soon adopted him as their patron saint.

More Than Just a Legend

Arnold’s legacy is more than miracle stories and witty quotes. He represents a time when brewing was not only a profession but a vital service to the community. Monks and priests throughout Europe followed his lead, perfecting brewing methods, documenting recipes, and creating beers that remain influential to this day.

Indeed, many of the world’s oldest breweries were founded by religious orders, guided by saints like Arnold who saw beer as a gift to be shared responsibly and joyfully.

Modern-Day Influence

Today, Saint Arnold is still celebrated by brewers around the world. The Feast of Saint Arnold (commonly marked on July 18th) is a perfect excuse for beer lovers to raise a glass in his honour. Breweries have been named after him, beer festivals held in his memory, and even craft beers brewed in homage to his legacy.

One such example is the Saint Arnold Brewing Company in Texas, which proudly bears his name and image. Across Europe and beyond, his story is told with reverence—and a toast.

Why We Should Celebrate Him

In a world that often rushes past the rich heritage behind the things we enjoy, Saint Arnold is a reminder that beer is not just a beverage—it’s a part of our cultural and spiritual history. He stands as a symbol of the brewer’s craft, of hospitality, and of using one’s knowledge to protect and support the community.

So next time you enjoy a refreshing pint, take a moment to reflect on the wisdom of a man who combined faith, science, and common sense to better the lives of his people.

Cheers to Saint Arnold of Metz—patron saint of beer, brewers, and better living.

Want to know which beers pair best with medieval-inspired meals? Or how monks revolutionised brewing? Follow us for more stories celebrating the intersection of faith, food, and fermentation!