Ghrelin

Definition

Hormone produced by the stomach that stimulates appetite and increases food intake.

How it works

Ghrelin is a peptide hormone mainly secreted by stomach cells before meals, signaling the brain that the body needs energy. It acts by increasing hunger and encouraging food intake, while decreasing after meals when blood glucose levels rise. Lack of sleep and stress increase ghrelin, which can lead to overeating. It plays a crucial role in regulating body weight and energy homeostasis.

Role

Stimulates appetite and encourages food intake according to energy needs.

Examples

• Hunger before meals
• Increase after caloric restriction
• Elevation in case of sleep deprivation
• Suppression after glucose absorption

Recommendations

Sleep 7-9 hours to reduce elevated ghrelin levels. Eat regular and balanced meals to stabilize this hormone. Limit ultra-processed foods that do not effectively suppress ghrelin.

Key takeaway

Ghrelin stimulates hunger and rises in case of sleep deprivation or caloric restriction.

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