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Hops, the flower of the hop plant, does more than just add flavor to beer: it may also offer surprising health benefits. Long valued for their unique bitterness and preservative qualities, hops contain compounds like xanthohumol and bitter acids, which researchers are now exploring for the potential effects on blood sugar, inflammation, and even cancer cells. Although research is still emerging, findings suggest that hops could support wellness beyond the brew!
Curious? Click on to learn more about the potential health benefits of hops.
Beer traces its roots back to early agrarian societies, where humans began farming grains like barley and wheat around 12,000 years ago. This shift marked the beginning of brewing traditions that laid the foundation for beer as we know it.
Early humans noticed a surprising transformation when grains got wet, creating a brew with intoxicating effects. Though they didn't understand fermentation, they knew this drink brought happiness!
The transition from a nomadic lifestyle to farming didn't just enable permanent settlements: it also sparked the first experiments with fermented grains.
To improve flavor and preservation, early societies added herbs to their brews, collectively known as gruit. This herbal blend made beer more palatable and extended its shelf life.
Around 1,000 years ago, hops became the preferred gruit due to their bitterness, aroma, and ability to keep beer fresh. By the Middle Ages, hops had become a key ingredient in beer across Europe.
Hops bring a distinct bitterness that balances the natural sweetness of grains. This bitterness, along with hops' floral and fruity aromas, helped establish the plant as an essential ingredient in beer.
Historically, hops have been valued in traditional medicine. Today, research is exploring these potential benefits in areas like sleep support, stress relief, and inflammation control.
Studies suggest that hops' compounds, like xanthohumol, could address a range of health issues.
Though most research is still in its early stages, studies on hops compounds in cells and animals reveal promising effects on blood sugar, cholesterol, and other health markers.
The US brewing industry uses almost all the hops produced domestically, which could limit its availability for use in supplements and medical research.
Experts suggest that nonalcoholic beers may help deliver some of the benefits of hops without excessive alcohol intake, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Hops compounds may be more readily absorbed in the presence of alcohol, though this comes with the caveat of limiting alcohol consumption for health reasons.
In laboratory tests, xanthohumol lowered blood glucose levels in obese rats, suggesting that it could help manage blood sugar and prevent weight gain under certain conditions.
Antioxidants in hops have been shown to reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol oxidation, potentially helping to prevent cholesterol-related damage in the bloodstream.
Xanthohumol has shown cell-killing effects on cancer cells in lab settings, especially those linked to lung, colon, and ovarian cancers. This compound may interfere with cancer cell growth and replication.
Recent studies have shown that humans can absorb a significant amount of xanthohumol into their bloodstream, increasing the potential for health benefits from hops-based supplements.
Small human studies suggest that hops could reduce blood glucose levels in people with prediabetes.
During the pandemic, hops extract supplements were tested on COVID-19 patients with respiratory issues, showing potential in reducing ventilator time and improving recovery outcomes.
Xanthohumol's interaction with bile in the digestive system could make it beneficial for treating inflammatory bowel diseases.
Pilot studies have begun exploring the effects of high-dose xanthohumol on Crohn's patients, with results potentially advancing treatment options.
Studies using hops supplements have shown reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, making them a candidate for further study in mood disorder treatments.
Studies have found hops to be a mild sedative, making it useful for those with insomnia or sleep disturbances, especially in nonalcoholic beer forms.
Also, when combined with herbs like valerian, hops has been shown to have comparable effects to sleeping pills, offering a natural option for those seeking sleep support.
The phytoestrogen 8-prenylnaringenin in hops may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, by mimicking estrogen activity in the body.
Studies on xanthohumol have shown that it might reduce artery calcification, suggesting that hops could one day play a role in cardiovascular health support.
While generally safe, hops supplements can cause mild side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness.
Hops may mimic estrogen, posing potential risks for people with hormone-sensitive conditions. It should also be avoided before surgery due to its sedative effects.
Without a standardized dosage, those who consume hops supplements should adhere to product guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
As interest in hops grows, researchers are investigating its many health benefits. With ongoing studies, hops may prove to be a versatile plant for health and wellness.
Sources: (National Geographic) (Verywell Health)
Beyond beer: exploring the health benefits of hops
Explore the history, potential benefits, and side effects of hops
HEALTH Medicinal plants
Hops, the flower of the hop plant, does more than just add flavor to beer: it may also offer surprising health benefits. Long valued for their unique bitterness and preservative qualities, hops contain compounds like xanthohumol and bitter acids, which researchers are now exploring for the potential effects on blood sugar, inflammation, and even cancer cells. Although research is still emerging, findings suggest that hops could support wellness beyond the brew!
Curious? Click on to learn more about the potential health benefits of hops.