Beer Science: Why Does Beer Make You Hungry?

There is nothing like opening a cold beer after a long day of work. But have you ever noticed how it seems to make you more hungry? You’re not alone, in fact, it is a common phenomenon that many people experience in their lives. But why does it happen? In this comprehensive article, we will discuss the hunger and beer connection and expose why that cold brew might be a reason for those late-night cravings. If you are curious like I am, let’s grab a snack and uncover the mysteries behind this phenomenon.

What science tells us about hunger and beer

A 2005 study that included just 8 participants revealed that alcohol is associated with a lower level of ghrelin in the bloodstream. This hormone is known as the “hunger particle” and is known to increase food intake. However, the relationship between hunger and satiety is likely to be multifaceted, with various factors at play.

Despite several studies on this topic, there is still little evidence to suggest that humans naturally adjust their eating habits to compensate for the calories consumed in alcoholic beverages. In other words, we do not need to “make up for” the calories we consume by eating less food later on. As such, it’s important to be mindful of the calories you are consuming in your drinks and consider how they may impact your overall caloric intake and dietary goals.

Alcohol content: How beer affects your appetite

The high alcohol content in beer is responsible for the addition of hunger that most people experience. Alcohol is quickly absorbed in blood streams through the walls of the stomach & intestine can lead to a rapid onset of the effect of alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant that reduces our inhibition and slows down our central nervous system.

When we drink alcohol, the brain releases endorphins, which can give us a sense of pleasure and euphoria. As the alcohol wears off, our bodies try to counteract the effect by producing cortisol, a stress hormone that can increase our appetite. According to the studies, alcohol controls the part of the brain that takes control of appetite and satiety.

According to a study on Science Direct published on general obesity found that people who consumed alcohol before a meal consumed about 30% more calories than others who didn’t. According to a study published in the journal Appetite, consuming alcohol before a meal can cause a rise in hunger and a decrease in the feeling of fullness, leading to an increase in food consumption.

The caloric punch: What you need to consider

Although we don’t typically consider alcohol as a source of energy, it packs a powerful punch with 7 calories per gram — more than both carbohydrates and protein, which offer only 4 kcal/g. Only fats provide a higher amount of energy, with 9 kcal/g. It’s no secret that alcohol is often associated with access to calories, as even a simple glance at the nutrition information on a beer bottle can reveal.

Even if you choose a state vodka over a sugary cocktail, a standard serving of 1.5 fluid ounces still amounts to almost 100 calories. So while it may not fill you up like a meal, alcohol can contribute to your daily energy intake. It is essential to consider its impact on your overall diet.

Hops in beer: The culprit behind your late-night cravings

Hops are the primary components in beer and are responsible for providing its distinctive flavor and aroma. However, hops also contain appetite-stimulating properties that help us feel more hungry. Humulone, a compound of hops, has been shown to increase the release of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.

Researchers have found that the participants who drank a hopped beer had a higher level of ghrelin. This suggests that hops in beer can contribute to the feeling of hunger that most people experience after drinking.

Carbonation and hunger: The surprising link in beer consumption

Another factor that can contribute to hunger is carbonation. When we drink carbonated beverages, the carbon dioxide in the bubbles can create a feeling of fullness in our stomachs as the bubbles burst. Feelings of fullness and relaxation can quickly disappear, leaving us feeling hungry. A study published in the journal Physiology and Behavior found that people who consumed carbonated water before a meal had a higher level of ghrelin in their blood than others. It suggests that carbonation in beer can increase the stimulation of ghrelin, leading to an increase in appetite.

Conclusion

The hunger and beer connection is a true and accurate phenomenon that most people experience. While there are different theories about why beer causes hunger, most research suggests that it’s mainly due to alcohol content, carbonation, and hops. Alcohol can severely affect the part of the brain that controls hunger, while hops and carbonation stimulate the hormone ghrelin.

So the next time you find yourself munching on snacks after a night of drinking beer, don’t be surprised! By understanding the impact of alcohol on your hunger levels, you can be more mindful about your consumption and avoid overindulging, especially if you are trying to watch your waistline. Remember, moderation is a crucial factor when it comes to both beer and food. So be sure to savor each sip and bite in a balanced way.