Toxins in food have a bitter taste which makes people want to spit it out and bitterness also slows the digestive process, according to a new study.

Carried out by staff at US academic institution the University of California - Irvine and published online in the October 9th Journal of Clinical Investigation, the researchers state the findings could help scientists develop new therapies for conditions such as diabetes.

The study was performed on mice and the investigators state the results probably translate to humans.

It was found that cholesterol regulates the activity of bitter-taste receptors in the intestine - and diets high in plant material and potential toxins are low in cholesterol when compared to high-cholesterol, low-toxin meat-based diets.

The study states: "In small intestine cell cultures, low levels of cholesterol triggered a stronger receptor response – meaning they worked better – while high levels caused a weaker response."

As a result of the findings, the researchers state they could make medicines for conditions such as diabetes less bitter in taste and allow for increased palatability and quicker absorption.

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