Hops have bitter chemicals (called alpha and beta acids) that can bind to special taste receptors found in gut cells in a lab dish.
Scientific Claim
Humulus lupulus L. inflorescences contain bitter compounds, primarily α- and β-acids, that interact with intestinal bitter taste receptors in vitro.
Original Statement
“Inflorescences of the female hop plant (Humulus lupulus L.) contain biologically active compounds, most of which have a bitter taste... The results demonstrate that the hop extract is a rich source of bitter compounds (mainly α‐, β‐acids) that stimulate the secretion of anorexigenic peptides...”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design cannot support claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
Based on abstract only - full methodology not available to verify. The claim describes composition and interaction without implying causation, and uses language consistent with observational description.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The study found that the bitter parts of hops trigger special receptors in the gut that tell your body you're full, and this happens because of specific bitter chemicals in the hops.