Effect of bitter substances – the sweet aftertaste
Over the course of history it has been widely assumed that bitter substances signal toxicity. However, on the other hand, premium dark chocolate melting in the mouth can trigger a bittersweet symphony. Read on to find out how bitter flavours are perceived, what bitter foods there are and the effect of bitter substances on the body.
The key points
- Bitter substances were originally a warning sign of toxicity, but are contained in many healthy foods that can have positive health effects.
- Bitter substances are found in a variety of foods, including green leafy vegetables, artichokes, lemons, cocoa, mustard, radicchio and ginger.
- Bitter vegetables such as rocket or chicory can be combined with sweet dressings or in tea blends to soften the bitter flavour and aid digestion.
Bitter foods – from warning signal to bitter blindness
Since time immemorial, humans have approached bitter plants with hesitation and caution. That’s because bitter substances were considered to be indicative of toxic substances, whose effects could prove deadly. But not all bitter plants are toxic and there is no proven correlation between bitterness and toxicity.
We can detect even the smallest bitter note, and the taste lingers in the mouth for a long time – in contrast to sweet, salty or sour tastes. However, individual reactions to bitter substances and possible side effects depend on several factors. The reason for the different perception also depends on our genetic predisposition. With certain gene variations there is a real taste blindness to bitter flavours! In this case, the perception of bitter substances is severely restricted in those affected.
Foods containing bitter substances: bitter effect or positive influence?
While foods nowadays have less bitter notes, the market for bitter tea blends and especially bitter tinctures is growing. The mixture of bitter herbal extracts is said to satisfy the craving for something sweet. While some substances can slow gastric emptying, other bitter substances are thought to have an appetising effect. The effect of bitter substances on weight therefore hasn’t yet been scientifically proven.
Nevertheless, those bitter substances still have positive effects! The ingestion of bitter foods stimulates the digestive organs. The increased secretion of digestive juices, which include saliva, bile, gastric acid and secretions of the pancreas, aid digestion. In addition, bitter substances promote blood circulation and are said to have a positive effect on the immune system.
Bitter substances – which foods contain them
| Groceries | Health benefits | Frequent use |
|---|---|---|
| Green leafy vegetables | anti-inflammatory, promotes digestion and detoxification | salads, smoothies, vegetable dishes |
| Artichokes | supports liver function, stimulates digestion | as vegetables or in sauces |
| Lemons | antioxidant, supports the immune system | drinks, desserts, salads |
| Green bell pepper | pain-relieving, metabolism-stimulating | in salads, salsas |
| Cocoa (dark chocolate) | antioxidant, promotes heart health | in chocolate, drinks |
| Mustard | stimulates digestion, promotes blood circulation | in mustard sauces, marinades |
| Ginger | anti-inflammatory, supports the immune system, promotes digestion | in teas, smoothies, as a spice |
| Wild herbs | detoxifying, stimulates digestion, rich in vitamins | in salads, teas, as a spice |
| Tonic water | stimulates digestion, combats stomach complaints | as a refreshing drink, in cocktails |
Optimum storage is particularly important for foods that contain bitter substances. Our modern fridges have been specially developed to preserve the effect of bitter substances, among other things.
Technologies such as BioFresh keep your sensitive food within a constant temperature range. This slows down the ripening process, preserves the bitter substances, the full flavour and valuable vitamins.
Bitter vegetables as bitter temptations – tips
Many bitter vegetables are in season in summer. On the next hot summer’s day, why not choose some different types of salad and whip up a sweet dressing to go with the food? Sweet foods can discreetly mask and compliment the bitter taste.
Have you eaten something heavy and want to get your digestion going with the effects of bitter substances? Try a tea blend with wild herbs! It is not only the warmth of the drink but, in particular, the ingredients that promote digestion.
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