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Ghrelin

Definition

Ghrelin is a hormone produced by the stomach that stimulates hunger. It's often termed the 'hunger hormone' because it increases food intake and promotes fat storage.

Analogy

Imagine ghrelin as an alarm clock for eating. When your stomach is empty, ghrelin goes off like an alarm telling you it's time to eat.

Related terms

Leptin: This is a hormone made by adipose cells that helps regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger contrary to ghrelin which stimulates hunger.

Obesity: This is a medical condition where excess body fat has accumulated to an extent that it may have a negative effect on health. High levels of ghrelin can contribute to obesity.

Anorexia Nervosa: An eating disorder characterized by weight loss or lack of appropriate weight gain in growing children; difficulties maintaining an appropriate body weight for height, age, and stature; and, in many individuals, distorted body image. People with anorexia generally restrict the number of calories and the types of food they eat. Some people with the disorder also exercise compulsively, purge via vomiting and laxatives, and/or binge eat.