New research is constantly shaping our understanding of food and hunger. One study recently published explores the role of bitter plant extracts, particularly those derived from New Zealand-grown hops. A recent study investigated whether a bitter hops extract (Amarasate®) could influence hunger and food cravings during fasting.1 The findings add to a growing body of research examining how natural compounds interact with digestion and appetite regulation.
The study was conducted on 30 healthy adult women aged between 18-40 years with BMIs between 18.5-25, each undertaking a 24-hour water-only fast. During the fasting period, participants received either a placebo or one of two doses of the bitter hops extract (250 mg or 125 mg).1
Researchers assessed hunger, cravings, and food intake using Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) and a rice-based meal at the end of a 24-hour water-only fast. Participants rated their hunger, fullness, satisfaction, and cravings every 30 minutes between 16 and 24 hours of fasting, with results analysed for overall trends. They were then given a meal and instructed to eat until comfortably full, with intake measured by weighing the food before and after.1
The results showed that those who consumed the bitter hop extract reported an 8.1-14% reduction in hunger and food cravings compared to those who took the placebo.1 The study also found that their post-fast meal intake was slightly lower, which raises interesting questions about how bitterness influences eating behaviours.1
This aligns with previous research on bitter taste receptors in the gut and their role in releasing appetite-related gut hormones.2 Essentially, the idea is that by stimulating these receptors, certain bitter compounds may support the body’s natural satiety mechanisms.
Bitter foods and extracts have been consumed historically, and are often associated with digestive support and metabolic benefits. In modern research, there is growing interest in how bitter receptors in the gut may influence the release of hormones like GLP-1, cholecystokinin (CCK), and peptide YY (PYY), all of which are involved in digestion and satiety.1
Although the mechanism behind bitter hops’ effects is still unclear, the hypothesis is that gut-exposed bitterness (the activation of the bitter taste receptors in the digestive tract rather than on the tongue) may influence appetite signals through interactions with these peptide hormones.1
Sustainable weight management goes beyond simply eating less and moving more. It involves long-term lifestyle changes, tailored nutritional guidance, and behavioural strategies that promote overall health. A comprehensive programme that includes health coaching and evidence-based approaches can provide the necessary support for these changes.
Supplements containing New Zealand hops extract are currently available in New Zealand and the US, offering a 100% plant-based option for those exploring different ways to support their weight management journey.
The research into bitter hops and appetite perception is still evolving, but early studies provide insight into how natural compounds may complement existing approaches to weight management. For those interested in the science behind these findings, further details can be found in published clinical trials and academic studies exploring the relationship between gut-exposed bitterness and metabolic health.
*DISCLAIMER: This blog strictly offers information on published research and therefore should not be taken as medical advice.
Walker E, Lo K, Gopal P. Gastrointestinal delivery of bitter hop extract reduces appetite and food cravings in healthy adult women undergoing acute fasting. Obes Pillars. 2024;11(100117):100117.
Kok BP, Galmozzi A, Littlejohn NK, Albert V, Godio C, Kim W, et al. Intestinal bitter taste receptor activation alters hormone secretion and imparts metabolic benefits. Mol Metab. 2018;16:76–87.
