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The ancient origins of beer -

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.

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The accidental discovery of fermentation -

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!

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From nomads to brewers -

The transition from a nomadic lifestyle to farming didn't just enable permanent settlements: it also sparked the first experiments with fermented grains.

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"Gruit" and beer preservation in ancient societies -

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.

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The introduction of hops to brewing -

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.

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Hops as a beer enhancer -

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.

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Hops in traditional medicine -

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.

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Beneficial compounds -

Studies suggest that hops' compounds, like xanthohumol, could address a range of health issues.

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Research -

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.

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Limited hops supply in brewing -

The US brewing industry uses almost all the hops produced domestically, which could limit its availability for use in supplements and medical research.

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Low and non-alcoholic beer options -

Experts suggest that nonalcoholic beers may help deliver some of the benefits of hops without excessive alcohol intake, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

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The paradox of alcohol's role in absorption -

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.

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Xanthohumol's role in obesity and blood glucose control -

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.

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Hops and cholesterol management -

Antioxidants in hops have been shown to reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol oxidation, potentially helping to prevent cholesterol-related damage in the bloodstream.

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Potential anti-cancer effects -

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.

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Human absorption of xanthohumol -

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.

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Early human trials show promise -

Small human studies suggest that hops could reduce blood glucose levels in people with prediabetes.

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Hops in COVID-19 treatment support -

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.

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Digestive health -

Xanthohumol's interaction with bile in the digestive system could make it beneficial for treating inflammatory bowel diseases.

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New studies on hops and Crohn's disease -

Pilot studies have begun exploring the effects of high-dose xanthohumol on Crohn's patients, with results potentially advancing treatment options.

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Anxiety and depression reduction -

Studies using hops supplements have shown reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, making them a candidate for further study in mood disorder treatments.

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Better sleep -

Studies have found hops to be a mild sedative, making it useful for those with insomnia or sleep disturbances, especially in nonalcoholic beer forms.

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Alternative for sleep aids -

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.

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Hot flash relief -

The phytoestrogen 8-prenylnaringenin in hops may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, by mimicking estrogen activity in the body.

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Cardiovascular potential of xanthohumol -

Studies on xanthohumol have shown that it might reduce artery calcification, suggesting that hops could one day play a role in cardiovascular health support.

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Potential side effects of hops supplements -

While generally safe, hops supplements can cause mild side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness.

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Special precautions for hops use -

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.

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Dosing and safety considerations -

Without a standardized dosage, those who consume hops supplements should adhere to product guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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Future of hops research -

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) 

See also: Anti-aging foods that will turn back time

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