The hormone primarily responsible for reducing hunger is Leptin.
Leptin is produced by fat cells and acts on the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that regulates appetite and metabolism. When fat stores increase, leptin levels rise, signaling to the brain that the body has enough energy and suppressing hunger.
While leptin is a key player in hunger regulation, other hormones and factors also contribute:
- Insulin: This hormone, produced by the pancreas, helps regulate blood sugar levels and can also suppress appetite.
- Ghrelin: This hormone, produced by the stomach, stimulates hunger.
- Cholecystokinin (CCK): This hormone, released by the small intestine, promotes feelings of fullness after eating.
- Peptide YY (PYY): This hormone, released by the intestines, signals to the brain that you've eaten enough.
These hormones work together in a complex interplay to regulate hunger and satiety. Factors like stress, sleep, and exercise can also influence appetite.
