A new study published in Obesity Pillars found that Calocurb, a dietary supplement containing a bitter hops extract, may be useful in reducing cravings and hunger in women.
 
Amarasate, the active ingredient in Calocurb, has been evidenced in previous clinical research to activate GLP-1, however, unlike pharmaceutical products, the supplement doesn’t require a prescription and can be taken orally via capsule.
 
Prior research found that Calocurb supplementation was associated with a 40% reduction in self-reported cravings, a 30% reduction in self-reported hunger, and a calorie intake reduced by 18%, by stimulating the body’s production of hormones like GLP-1, CCK, and PYY, which are associated with appetite suppression. This prior study was conducted in a male population, warranting follow-up research in women.
 
In the latest randomized, double-blind, crossover study, 30 women were recruited and required to fast for 24 hours on three separate occasions and given an ad libitum meal to break each fast. At 16 and 20 hours into the fast, participants received either a placebo, a 125 mg dose of Amarasate, or a 250 mg dose of Amarasate. The primary outcomes assessed were differences in food cravings and appetite measures.
 
“The relative decrease in absolute hunger was much greater than previously seen in males. This finding agrees with other studies showing greater sensitivity of females to the appetite-suppressing effects of GI-targeted bitterness,” said Edward Walker, PhD, research lead of the present study. “The greater change in hunger values relative to other appetite measures also agrees with data previously observed in males.”
 
Sarah Kennedy, CEO of Calocurb, said that the latest findings provide additional assurance to healthcare practitioners about recommending Calocurb to their patients.
 
The research which led to the development of Calocurb began in 2010, and was supported by a New Zealand government research institute called Plant and Food Research, based on the hypothesis that bitter taste receptors would be present in the gut due to historical evidence that bitterness may be an appetite modulator.
 
Researchers tested more than 1,000 commonly-consumed bitter plant extract with a history of medicinal use, which could be used safely and effectively, and eventually determined that a hops extract later trademarked as Amarasate would be the best candidate.
 
Including the latest study, Amarasate is now supported by three clinical studies, and a fourth study involving 150 men and women is underway, which will include more biomarker measures including weight. The study will cost $2 million and results are expected in the first half of 2025.