The experiments of the biologists of the University of Milan Bicocca showed very unexpected results. The substances in beer can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
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The main danger of this hitherto incurable disease is that its external symptoms appear years after irreversible brain damage has started to develop. Therefore, doctors regularly emphasize the need for prevention. It was in the search for “nutraceuticals” – foods and supplements that can help with this, that scientists began studying the properties of hops.
It has been found that the chemicals contained in this plant can inhibit the formation of amyloid plaques, which damage neurons. It’s no secret that hops are an ingredient in many beer recipes. This alcoholic beverage is produced and consumed in large quantities and can be a promising tool for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
Experts researched four of the most popular hop varieties: Zatec hop, Cascade, Tettnang and Summit. At the same time, experts tried to use methods similar to those used in beer production. The substances isolated from the plant have been used in human nerve cell cultures.
All the extracts were found to exhibit antioxidant properties and prevent the accumulation of amyloid plaques. Tettnanger, a rather rare and valuable variety that grows in southwestern Germany, has proven itself better than the others. Its extract is found in most lagers and pale ales.
Subsequently, the biologists conducted some experiments on nematodes. The beneficial effect of hops was not very pronounced, but the worms were protected from the paralysis caused by Alzheimer’s disease.
The authors made it clear that their work does not mean that beer is healthy, but nevertheless, the valuable properties of hops clearly need further study. It is possible that one day nutraceuticals with pronounced preventive properties will be created on the basis.
