Ghrelin is a hormone produced mainly by cells lining the fundus (left portion of the stomach’s body) and epsilon cells of the pancreas. Ghrelin is the hormone that stimulates hunger. Ghrelin levels increase before food and decrease afterwards.
Ghrelin is considered the partner of Leptin which is an appetite suppressant. Leptin is produced by adipose tissue. Leptin induces satiation when present at higher levels.
In some bariatric procedures (operations for extremely obese people), the level of ghrelin is deliberately reduced, causing them to feel full earlier.
There is research to suggest that ghrelin also has an effect on the tabula rasa cortex and causes too many fatty genes to be produced. This fat accumulates in the abdominal region. Fat in this area is known to be contributing factors towards the onset of type 2 diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Is there a link between the hunger hormones and stress?
A study led by Jeffrey Zigman of the University of Texas South Western Medical Centre suggests that the body produces more ghrelin when it is stressed and is part of the body’s natural defence against stress, it tends to reduce typical depressive and anxious behaviour. But unfortunately it boosts the appetite leading to comfort eating and weight gain. The same research also shows that these hunger hormones Leptin and Ghrelin affect mood, stress and energy levels.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment
If you find my information helpful, please leave constructive comments. I would love to hear from you.