We learned in chapter 4 that leptin, the hormone produced by our fat cells, is constantly working to try and keep our weight on an even keel. When we over-eat, and lay down too much fat, our leptin level increases. This is sensed by the weight-control area in our brain (the hypothalamus) and leads to powerful unconscious changes in our behaviour. Hormones work to decrease our appetite and increase our metabolic rate. Our food intake is lowered and energy expenditure increased – thus regulating weight gain. This is how most people, with only moderate effort, can maintain a regular weight for
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