Damage to appetite cells increases hunger and contributes to weight gain

by Rich Bowden - Aug 26 2008, 00:14

Key appetite control cells located in the human brain can become damaged over time resulting in increased hunger signals contributing to weight gain, a study has revealed.

In a study published by Nature journal, researchers at Australia's Monash University have found that cells which suppress the appetite are attacked by free radicals after food is consumed. The effect is more noticeable after a food high in sugar and carbohydrates and becomes more pronounced as we grow older.

"The more carbs and sugars you eat, the more your appetite-control cells are damaged, and potentially you consume more," said Dr Zane Andrews, a neuroendocrinologist with Monash University's Department of Physiology, who led the research.

Dr Andrews said the attack on the appetite-suppressing cells caused an imbalance between our hunger and the signal from the brain to stop eating.

"When the stomach is empty, it triggers the ghrelin hormone that notifies the brain that we are hungry. When we are full, a set of neurons known as POMCs kick in."

"However, free radicals created naturally in the body attack the POMC neurons. This process causes the neurons to degenerate overtime, affecting our judgement as to when our hunger is satisfied," Dr Andrews said.

He added that the study could provide one explanation for the complex condition of adult-onset obesity.

"A diet rich in carbohydrate and sugar that has become more and more prevalent in modern societies over the last 20-30 years has placed so much strain on our bodies that it's leading to premature cell deterioration," Dr Andrews said.

 

 

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