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Drinking too much brew can lead not only to the infamous “beer belly,” or the much less desired abdominal obesity.
A recent study has revealed that beer consumption can also lead to another unwanted physical trait—the dreaded “man boobs.”
Several researchers have found a link between the condition, medically known as the endocrine system disorder Gynecomastia, and the beer’s flavoring and stability agent, hops.
According to The New York Post, beers loaded with hops contain a high amount of phytoestrogen—a plant-derived chemical that is similar to the female sex hormone estrogen.
Upon consumption, the seemingly harmless brewing staple possesses an estrogenic effect on a man’s body and boosts the levels of female sex hormone.
The sudden increase of estrogen causes a hormonal imbalance for men, many of whom will develop fatty tissue around the breast area.
It is also worth noting that hops are typically used as a herbal remedy for women experiencing menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and vaginal dryness.
Hops can also treat insomnia and a natural diuretic to help improve the flow of pee, the report said.
Meanwhile, the head brewer and managing director of Brecon Brewery and chairman of the Society of Independent Brewers, Buster Grant, urged the public not to shy away from the beloved beverage.
“It is dependent on the hop variety, some have more than others,” he said. “In the end, we are talking about tiny, tiny amounts that are coming through in a pint of beer.”
He added that consistent cardiovascular activities could go a long way in battling “man boobs.”
“It is an interesting concept, but I think the reality is you are more likely to develop “moobs” from a lack of exercise rather than the estrogen in the beer.” Khristian Ibarrola /ra
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