It seems unlikely, but there are actually health benefits to drinking beer—it’s not just a vehicle for empty carbs. From aiding in bone density (a concern for many women) to reducing cholesterol, here are six reasons to crack open a cold one tonight.

According to research (more than 100 studies, so it has to be legit) from Harvard University, there is an association between moderate drinking and a 20 to 45 percent reduction in risk of heart attack or death from cardiovascular disease. Another study found that moderate beer consumption can increase HDL, or healthy cholesterol.

Keep in mind, though, that the American Heart Association recommends no more than one to two drinks a day for men and one drink per day for women.

The American Diabetes Association analyzed 15 different studies about moderate alcohol consumption and Type 2 Diabetes, and found a 30 percent reduced risk when people drank 6 to 48 grams of alcohol per day. Keep in mind, though, that the average beer contains about 14 grams of alcohol, so make sure to drink mindfully.