A special extract derived from hops — the flowers commonly used to make beer — may help reduce belly fat, according to a recent study.
Researchers found that this extract could be a useful tool for people seeking to manage their weight.
Here is a closer look at the findings.
Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, accumulates around internal organs in the abdominal area. Excess visceral fat is associated with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, making it an important target for prevention and treatment strategies.
Hops are the flowers of the hop plant, traditionally used to give beer its characteristic bitterness and aroma. In recent years, scientists have begun exploring potential health benefits of hops beyond brewing.
In the study, researchers examined the effects of a compound known as matured hop extract (MHE) on belly fat in overweight adults.
Participants were randomly assigned to two groups. For 12 weeks, they consumed a daily beverage containing either MHE or a placebo — a substance with no active ingredients.
Using CT scans to measure changes in abdominal fat, the researchers observed notable results. Participants who consumed the hop extract showed a significant reduction in belly fat, particularly visceral fat, after both 8 and 12 weeks.
This finding is important because reducing visceral fat can lower the risk of many chronic diseases.
The study also reported that daily consumption of the hop extract was safe, with no adverse effects observed among participants. This suggests that MHE could potentially serve as a natural approach to reducing excess belly fat.
Although the trial lasted only 12 weeks — a relatively short period — the results are encouraging. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of hop extract on body fat and overall health.
Why belly fat is harmful
Excess belly fat poses significant health risks. High levels of visceral fat are linked to conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, certain cancers, and stroke.
Reducing abdominal fat is therefore a key goal for improving long-term health.
While the study focused on hop extract, maintaining a healthy weight typically requires a comprehensive lifestyle approach. Regular physical activity — such as running, swimming, or other forms of exercise — combined with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins remains essential.
Hop extract shows promise as a potential aid for reducing belly fat. This natural compound derived from hops, best known for its role in beer production, demonstrated the ability to decrease visceral fat in overweight adults.
Although more research is required to confirm its long-term benefits, incorporating hop extract alongside healthy lifestyle habits may support weight management.
Maintaining a healthy weight ultimately depends on consistent healthy choices — staying active, eating nutritious foods, and supporting overall well-being.
The study was published in the journal Nutrition Journal and conducted by Yumie Morimoto-Kobayashi and colleagues at the Kirin Company in Japan.
