Contradictory? I don't think it's contradictory at all.

Tufts E-News -- The Buzz On Beer's Health Benefits:

While it may seem contradictory, the health benefits of beer are not a joke. According to Tufts experts, new research is generating buzz that moderate consumption of your favorite brew may help improve your health.

"Most health research suggests that benefits, including protection against heart disease, are noted with up to one drink per day for women and up to two a day for men,” (associate professor of nutrition Katherine) Tucker told the Courant.