'Hoppy Beer' May Lessen The Severity Of Liver Damage, Study Shows

Most people are aware that beers damage the liver. The alcohol found in beer is the one most responsible for the damage, but surprisingly, another ingredient found in beer may lessen the damage. A current study shows that hop does not only give flavor to the beer, it also reduces the damaging effect of the liver.

Humulus lupulus better known as hop is a kind of flower, one of the key ingredients in making beer. It is used to add flavour for it has a bitter, zesty taste. Hop is also responsible for the preservation of beer.

A new study suggests that hop is lessening the damage caused by alcohol in the liver. Researchers test the effect of beer with the help of mice.

In the experiment, the researchers gave mice a special beer without hops, regular beer with hops and plain alcohol (ethanol). The mice were then observed for 12 hours. As a result, the mice that were given a beer with hops showed less fat build-up in their liver compared to mice that were given alcohol. As for the mice that were given beer without hops has the same amount of fat accumulated in their livers with the ones that were given alcohol, according to Live Science.

Researchers said that their new findings will help explain why some people suggested that drinking hard liquor is often associated with liver disease compared to those who are drinking beer. Experts also suggested that hops may lower the formation of a compound called reactive oxygen species which is responsible for the damage of liver cells, as reported by the science explorer.

However, researchers stated that they have to conduct more research if the result of the experiment with the mice is applicable to humans. Senior scientist at the Alcohol Research Group "in some countries, consumption of hard liquor is more strongly linked to death from liver disease, compared to beer consumption." He also added that still, beer causes liver disease if abused.