Hop benefits Dr. Adrian Gombart, professor of biochemistry and biophysics in the College of Science at Oregon State University, along with his colleagues are researching the benefits that hops and a derivative in hops called xanthohumol, can help fight abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar among some metabolic functions as well as improve cognitive function. The findings, published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, are a key advance in understanding how xanthohumol, a compound that contributes to hops’ flavor, and its derivatives work. That is an important step toward improving the lives of the estimated 35% of U.S. adults who suffer from metabolic syndrome.