The reason you hate IPAs and bitter foods might be in your genes

All arguments about their costliness and perceived smugness aside, the reason you don't like the taste of IPAs might not even be within your control at all -- a study by UConn has suggested that it's because you could be genetically predisposed to hating bitter things. Now, this may come as a bitter pill to swallow, but at least you know it's not the beer's fault. Because it's totally your parents'.

The researchers found that around a quarter of the population has a taste receptor gene called TAS2R38 that makes them more sensitive to bitter tastes, which in turn influences them to not only drink fewer IPAs (the horror!), but also to eat fewer servings of bitter vegetables like Brussels sprouts and kale. Around 200 fewer servings per year, in fact -- another fact their parents are probably lamenting right now.

So, if you're a bitter food/beer-hater, take solace in the fact that you are a rare (and special) breed, and that you have stronger tastes than some. Also, there are plenty of other foods and beers out there for you to try. Go forth!

Adam Lapetina is a food/drink staff writer for Thrillist, and thinks IPAs are decent. Read his musings at @adamlapetina.