The Relation Between Ghrelin and Obesity

Posted on September 16, 2009 in Obesity Issues

Ghrelin is the hormone which plays an important role in obesity. Researchers have found out that increased Ghrelin levels can increase the appetite and slow down the metabolism. Hence, a person having increased Ghrelin levels would feel hungrier and would burn fat slowly. This can predispose him/her towards obesity.

Leptin is another hormone which can influence the obesity problem. Researchers have found out that increased Leptin levels in the blood can suppress the appetite and accelerate the fat burning process. Hence, while increased Ghrelin levels are harmful, increased Leptin levels are effective in overcoming obesity.

Sleep and Obesity:
Sleep deprivation can result in obesity. How is this possible? Research shows that lack of sleep can increase the levels of Ghrelin and decrease the Leptin levels in the body. As mentioned earlier, increased Ghrelin levels and lower Leptin levels can increase the appetite and slow down your fat burning process. This can put you at a risk of obesity. Hence, make sure you have a good night’s sleep on a daily basis.

In addition to sleep, gastric bypass surgery was also found to have an effect on the Ghrelin levels. Studies showed that gastric bypass surgery helped in lowering the Ghrelin levels, which can in turn help individuals to overcome obesity.

Research is going on to develop a drug which can help to block the action of Ghrelin. Drugs which can block the action of Ghrelin can help in weight loss. Similarly, Ghrelin stimulating drugs can be helpful to stimulate appetite in people who are weakened from the effect of disease.

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