Appetite control and Obesity

Satiety, appetite, and craving are CNS drives, whereas metabolism and energy utilization are peripheral endocrine actions.

Stephen M. Stahl, M.D., Ph.D.

Appetite is controlled by the basal hypothalamus through the interplay of hormonal and neural mechanisms. During the last two decades, a variety of hypothalamic neuropeptides regulating appetite have been discovered and classified as orexigenics (stimulants) or anorexigenics (inhibitors). Peripheral hormones and neural influences also affect appetite and eating behavior.

Obesity results from an imbalance between excessive food intake and energy expenditure. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development. Dysregulation of appetite regulating peptides has been demonstrated in obese patients and animal models.