What Makes You Hungry? GHRELIN

  • Ghrelin is a hunger hormone produced in the stomach.

  • A powerful appetite stimulant that is produced in the fundus of the stomach in response to hunger.

  • Has been associated with obesity.

  • Ghrelin release results in increased growth hormone secretion, increased gastric acid secretion, gastric motility, and decreased gastric emptying. Levels of this peptide have been associated with obesity.

Diagram illustrating ghrelin's role in human body.
Map showing obesity rates in U.S. states and territories in 2011.

Facts and Numbers

Obesity rates are increasing exponentially worldwide in adults and children. It is a common and costly health issue that increases risk for stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

This preventable condition affects more than 36.5% of adults and 17% of youth in the United States, with an annual cost of 147 billion dollars.

Understanding Overweight and Obesity

The current fast-paced lifestyle has caused a change in dietary and physical patterns, which have had an effect on the overall weight of the population.

A body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 25 is considered overweight, and a BMI greater than or equal to 30 is considered obese.

Body transformation illustration with arrow.

Obesity and Its Complications

Human silhouette with various health conditions labeled.