It
turns out that the trend of hoppy beers and IPAs is not only delicious,
but also good for your health. According to a recent study published in
the Oxford University Press, drinking beers with higher levels of hops can mitigate the negative effects of alcohol on the liver. Cheers to that!
A
group of German researchers tested this theory by feeding a group of
mice (oddly referred to as a “binge-drinking mouse model” in the study)
regular beer, hoppy beer, straight ethanol, and a control solution. The
scientists then measured the effects on the liver, intestines and plasma
after two hours and after 12 hours.
The
results were pretty astounding. Scientists noted that alcohol-induced
hepatic fat accumulation (the fat accumulation that leads to fatty liver
disease, or hepatic steatosis) was significantly less in the mice that
consumed hoppy beer than in those that consumed regular beer or straight
ethanol.
So
not only did Germany bestow the gift that is Oktoberfest upon us all,
we also now have its scientists to thank for a study that gives us
permission to fully enjoy the festival in all its hops-filled splendor.
And for that we say, "danke schön."
This
study comes out just in the nick of time for optimal Oktoberfest
enjoyment. So in order to help you celebrate properly — and more
healthfully — we’ve put together a list of the best hoppy beers out
there.
Our 5 Favorite Hoppy Beers to Cheers With:
1. Pliny the Elder:
This imperial double IPA from Sonoma Coast’s Russian River Valley
Brewery is a cult favorite with beer aficionados. With its bitter,
complex taste, fragrant nose and amber color, there’s little more you
could possibly want in a beer.
2. Barley Brown’s Headshake IPA:
Described as an “IPA and a half,” Oregon’s Barley Brown Brewery is
putting out one of the state’s most reputable IPAs. A notable feat in a
state that’s such a force to be reckoned with in the craft brew scene
.
.
3. Stone Brewing “Enjoy By” IPA:
Not only does this beer from San Diego contain more than 10 different
types of hops, it also is brewed to be consumed in a short window of
time for optimal freshness and taste.
4. Sierra Nevada Torpedo Extra IPA:
For those who want the benefits of hops without going crazy in the
bitterness department, look no further than the Sierra Nevada Torpedo.
With its hoppy nose and smooth taste, you’re getting the best of both
worlds.
5. Ballast Point Grapefruit Sculpin:
This IPA is made light and crisp from an infusion of grapefruit in the
brewing process for an easy-drinking, bright, hoppy beer. Perfect for
the IPA newbie.
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