Scientists discover how to ‘switch off’ sensation of hunger

It's the worst feeling: you're trying to cut back on your food intake but all you can think about is eating.

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by Jack White |
Published on

But scientists recently made a discovery which could mean this is a thing of the past.

The researchers at Harvard Medical School and Edinburgh University believe they have found a way to SWITCH OFF hunger.

That's right – according to their findings the brain cells that control the feeling of hunger can be switched on and off.

Testing their theory on mice, the scientists found that switching off the cells increased hunger but switching them on stopped cravings for food.

The findings could mean a drug that could help to beat obesity
The findings could mean a drug that could help to beat obesity

Bradford Low, the study's senior co-author, said: "Our results show that the artificial activation of this particular brain circuit is pleasurable and can reduce the feeding in mice, essentially resulting in the same outcome as dieting but without the chronic feeling of hunger."

The current weight-loss aids available simply make the user feel fuller for longer, but the scientists' findings mean there could soon be a drug to stop the sensation of hunger altogether.

While this could be beneficial for treating obesity, the user's body would still be craving food but their brain would feel full and satisfied.

Would you try such a drug if it became available?

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