Hops may be the key to countering metabolic syndrome

The health and quality of life of millions of people around the world are increasingly at risk from metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that leave those affected vulnerable to heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Against the backdrop of the rapid spread of metabolic syndrome — due to the lack of healthy lifestyles and processed foods, in addition to genetics — researchers at Oregon State University have hope. In their study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Researchthey discovered that compounds found in hops can help counter metabolic syndrome by altering the gut microbiome (genetic material of microbes like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that live on and in the body) as well as acids produced in the liver.

Reduction of bile acid

In this study, laboratory mice were fed only high-fat foods containing xanthohumol (XN) and two of its hydrogenated derivatives, dihydro-xanthohumol (DXN) and tetrahydro-xanthohumol (TXN). . Subsequently, the scientists measured the effects of the compounds on bile acids (formed thanks to cholesterol), tissue inflammation and the microbial composition of the intestine.

The results showed that hop compounds decreased the number and diversity of microbes, reduced inflammation and altered bile acid metabolism. Thanks to xanthohumol and its derivatives, the researchers observed a reduction in the production of bile acid, which indicates an improvement in the metabolism of energy, glucose and cholesterol.

This study provided a better understanding of the functioning of xanthohumol, a component naturally present in hops that gives it its aroma and bitterness. In previous research, xanthohumol (XN) and two of its hydrogen derivatives, dihydro-xanthohumol (DXN) and tetrahydro-xanthohumol (TXN), have been shown to improve cognitive function in sufferers. Research in a mouse model has shown that XN, DXN and TXN improve glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and leptin sensitivity (the hormone responsible for feeling full and regulating energy expenditure ). These are beneficial for those who suffer from metabolic syndrome.

New questions about the properties of hops

“Although changes in gut microbes and acid metabolism appear to explain why xanthohumol and its derivatives reduce obesity and other aspects of metabolic syndrome, we have yet to determine which changes in microbiota are beneficial,” says Adrian Gobart , corresponding author of the study, professor of biochemistry and biophysics at the College of Science.

Fred Stevens, a professor of pharmaceutical sciences at Oregon State University’s College of Pharmacy, said he was surprised that the benefits of hop compounds came with a decrease in microbial diversity rather than the reverse.

Although Adrian Gombart suggests that the insect-killing anti-microbial properties of hops are not beneficial, Fred Stevens believes that further research will determine the direct effect of hop compounds on the body, in addition to their effect on gut microbes.