A recent study has uncovered a potential link between moderate-intensity exercise and reduced hunger sensations in individuals with overweight and obesity. Conducted through two randomized crossover trials, separated by at least seven days, the research involved a comparison between a 60-minute bicycling exercise session and a rest period. The trials, which included meals and measurement-taking, showed that exercise could increase proteins associated with appetite suppression while reducing an appetite-stimulating hormone. These findings suggest that exercise may help suppress hunger and enhance feelings of fullness.
The study, published in the journal Physiological Reports, highlights the role of skeletal muscle in metabolism, particularly through the release of IL-6 and irisin proteins. Increased levels of IL-6 have been linked to appetite suppression, while NPY, a hormone associated with increased hunger, showed a reduction immediately following the exercise session. The results align with previous data indicating that NPY, IL-6, and irisin are integral to energy balance and metabolism, potentially interacting with hormones like ghrelin, GLP-1, and PYY.
“Previous data has shown that the hormone NPY, and signaling proteins IL-6 and irisin, may be involved with energy balance and metabolism. Increased levels of NPY have been associated with appetite stimulation (increased hunger). IL-6 and irisin are mainly released from skeletal muscle and play a role in metabolism as well, with studies showing increased levels of IL-6 are associated with appetite suppression (decreased hunger). Importantly, all may interact with other energy regulating hormones such as ghrelin, GLP-1, and PYY.” – Mir Ali, MD
Dr. Mir Ali, a board-certified general surgeon not involved in the study, commented on the findings, noting the complex interplay of hormones in hunger regulation. He mentioned that such outcomes are expected given the intricate hormone interactions that induce hunger or satiety.
“Not surprised by the findings from this study“ because “there are complex interactions of many hormones to induce hunger or satiety.” – Mir Ali, MD
Despite the promising results, Dr. Ali highlighted the difficulty in forming a consensus due to varying protocols in studies related to meal status, exercise mode, duration, and intensity.
“Due to the wide variability in protocols — meal status (whether they are fasted or ate food beforehand), exercise mode, duration, and intensity — it is difficult to form a consensus.” – Mir Ali, MD
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