How do hormones affect appetite regulation?

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating appetite, and understanding their effects is vital for grasping how energy balance is maintained in the body. Ghrelin, often referred to as the "hunger hormone," is produced in the stomach and signals the brain to stimulate appetite. When ghrelin levels increase, it promotes feelings of hunger, leading individuals to seek out food.

Leptin, on the other hand, is produced by adipose (fat) tissue and serves to inhibit appetite. It informs the brain about the body's energy stores, signaling that there is enough energy available, which helps to curb hunger. Elevated levels of leptin result in reduced appetite and increased energy expenditure, contributing to weight maintenance or loss.

The correct answer highlights the distinct roles these hormones play in appetite regulation: ghrelin encourages eating, while leptin acts as a counterbalance to reduce the urge for food intake. This delicate interplay between ghrelin and leptin is essential for the body's overall energy homeostasis and helps in understanding conditions like obesity and eating disorders.