Hops may improve glucose tolerance and cognition
Approximately 35% of the US population has Metabolic syndrome (MtS). The syndrome can lead to cognitive dysfunction and dementia and is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at Oregon State University have derived compounds from the hops plant for treatment of the syndrome — xanthohumol (XN) and two of its derivatives DXN and TXN. The compounds have been studied for many years now. One criticism that was brought up before is these molecules transform into a strong estrogen compound.
One of the lead researchers, Fred Stevens, modified the part of the molecule responsible for turning into an estrogen compound. This modification rid the risk of creating estrogen compounds, and also proved to be a stronger molecule for treatment of MtS, a win-win discovery.
Scientists studied effects of XN, DXN and TXN on spacial memory of animals. They concluded TX is specifically potent in reducing insulin resistance and XN improved spatial learning and memory. They have essentially no harmful side effects and could be a novel approach to the management and prevention of MtS.
To learn more about this research, visit Oregon State University
Questions: Would you recommend these hops compounds before other pharmacologic treatments? Are you concerned about any long term consequences of using hops-derived compounds?
