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Shark Tank India judge Namita Thapar, currently in her perimenopausal phase, recently shared dietary habits, including having bitter drops before every meal. “Bitter drops are a German tradition. I was introduced to it at the Lanserhof spa in Munich and loved it. You take 10 drops before every meal for better digestion and to help with cravings. It’s a fantastic weight management tool,” 48-year-old Thapar wrote in an Instagram post.
She continued, “In Bengali culture, too, the meal starts with a bitter sabzi. It doesn’t taste the best, but it does a world of good. So in Jaipur, I indulged in the local delicacies that I love love love, but I made sure I took my @arthbyemcure bitter drops before every meal.”
But what are bitter drops?
Bitter drops are liquid remedies from natural herbs and plants that have a strong, bitter flavour.
“They contain ingredients like gentian root, dandelion, artichoke leaf and other goods known to help the digestion process. Bitters are intended to be taken a few drops before eating, and they may help jump-start and prime the digestive machinery of the body,” said Dt Amreen Sheikh, chief dietitian, KIMS Hospitals, Thane.
Is there any truth to this claim?
According to Sheikh, bitters act by increasing the release of digestive fluids and bile, which makes it better for the stomach to digest foods, and to decrease bloating, heaviness, and indigestion. They also help facilitate smoother nutrient absorption, allowing meals to feel less heavy on the system, said Sheikh.
Bitter food items or herbal drops also stimulate the taste receptors present on the tongue, which activate the digestive secretions such as saliva, stomach acid, and bile. “This also helps the body to prepare for the food intake, improving the digestion and absorption of nutrients,” said Dr Rohit Sharma, consultant, internal medicine, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Jaipur.
Can they curb cravings and manage weight?
Yes, bitter tastes can also help with cravings, especially for sugar, said Sheikh. “The bitter taste sends messages through the receptors in the mouth and gut back to the brain, indicating feeling full, therefore helping to stop overeating. While they are not a magic weight-loss solution, they can assist in portion control and mindful eating,” said Sheikh.
What to note?
It’s natural to look for ways to support digestion, cravings, and weight, especially when faced with everyday discomfort or concerns. “While enjoying something bitter before meals can feel empowering — rooted both in tradition and science — it’s important to remember everybody is unique,” said consultant dietitian and diabetes educator Kanikka Malhotra.
According to Malhotra, while for some, the gentle stimulation of bitters can ease sluggish digestion, particularly if digestive function feels “slow” or there’s a history of post-meal heaviness, it doesn’t work for everyone, and in some, it may even bring on heartburn or discomfort, particularly in sensitive stomachs.
“A small amount, just a few drops or a handful of bitter greens, is more than enough if you wish to try, and there’s no need to push further,” cautioned Malhotra.
Bitter drops tend to be safe in small quantities, but one should notice the reaction of the body, said Sheikh. Using high-quality products and beginning in limited quantities is always a good idea.
Most importantly, any new habit should respect personal health needs, existing conditions, or medications. “Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction truly matter. Work with a qualified dietitian to chalk out the right path for your health,” said Malhotra.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
