If you have ever wondered why exercise often curbs your appetite, scientists have discovered a molecule called Lac-Phe that naturally quiets hunger signals in the brain, offering promising new hope for safe, effective weight loss treatments
Exercise burns calories, but it also dampens our appetite. Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine and collaborators have identified a molecule called Lac-Phe that is produced during intense workouts. This compound targets the brain’s hunger circuits, helping reduce food intake without unpleasant side effects.
Also Read: Why is obesity growing in India? Experts list causes of the epidemic
Dr Yang He, assistant professor of paediatrics and neurology at Baylor, shares, “Exercise is more than just burning calories; it also triggers metabolic changes that help suppress appetite.” Their study, published in Nature Metabolism, showed that Lac-Phe acts on two key neuron types in the hypothalamus. It inhibits AgRP neurons—which normally stimulate hunger—and activates PVH neurons that suppress appetite.
The working of lac-phe:
Lac-Phe works through a protein channel called KATP found on hunger-stimulating neurons. When Lac-Phe activates this channel, it quiets these neurons, reducing hunger signals. “When we blocked these channels, Lac-Phe no longer suppressed appetite, confirming its critical role,” shares Dr He. Importantly, treated mice showed no signs of discomfort or behavioural changes.
Promising implications for humans
While the study was done in mice, it holds promise for people. “Understanding Lac-Phe’s mechanism could lead to treatments mirroring exercise’s natural hunger control,” says Dr Yong Xu, University of South Florida. Such therapies could aid in tackling obesity by curbing appetite naturally and safely.
Also Read: 9 Proven strategies for reducing your risk for obesity
This discovery shows exercise’s intricate link to appetite regulation and metabolism. Apart from calorie burn, it may offer fresh strategies for weight management, blending the benefits of physical activity with new medical approaches. For many, Lac-Phe could soon be a key player in the fight against obesity.
FAQs on Hunger-Busting Molecule Lac-Phe:
1. What is Lac-Phe?
Lac-Phe is a molecule produced during intense exercise that helps suppress appetite by targeting hunger circuits in the brain.
2. How does Lac-Phe reduce hunger?
Lac-Phe activates a protein channel called KATP on hunger-stimulating neurons, quieting them and reducing hunger signals.
3. Are there any side effects associated with Lac-Phe?
According to research, treated mice showed no signs of discomfort or behavioural changes, indicating that Lac-Phe works without unpleasant side effects.
4. Can Lac-Phe be used for human weight loss treatments?
While the study was conducted in mice, understanding Lac-Phe's mechanism holds promise for developing treatments that mirror exercise's natural hunger control in humans.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
