The Hypothalamus Controls Eating

How does the Hypothalamus control eating?

The hypothalamus secretes several different hormones and can be considered the control center for your body. Nerves send electrical signals to your brain when your stomach is full of food. LEPTIN, the “satiety hormone” or “appetite suppressor”, is considered to be the MASTER REGULATOR OF HUNGER. It is released by fat cells in the body and is sent to the hypothalamus via the blood. It promotes satiety so that you know it’s time to stop eating and also tells your brain how much body fat is currently stored.

However, GHRELIN, the “hunger hormone” or “appetite stimulator”, is released by the stomach when it is empty, and when elevated, sends a signal to your brain letting you know you’re hungry and it’s time to eat. Ghrelin stimulates appetite, increases food intake, and promotes fat storage in the body.