The influence of food on food intake: Methodological problems and mechanisms of action

Abstract

Emphasis has been placed on the understanding of the regulation of food intake in the hope of aiding the battle against obesity and of helping to ameliorate the anorexia of cancer and eating disorders. Available data suggest that the regulatory system is multifaceted and complex. This review focuses on current research on the regulation of appetite and satiety by carbohydrates, fats, and proteins as well as by artificial sweeteners. Some methodological problems and potential mechanisms of action at the biochemical level are discussed. Evidence suggests that organisms are more successful in defending against calorie dilution than in adjusting to increases in calories. The implications of that defense relative to the use of ersatz nutrients are explored.

The effect of caloric of food on energy intake and body weight in tumor‐bearing rats

“…It should be noted that greater fat content of food can delay gastric emptying and thus affect food appetite (Hunt, 1980;Roehrig, 1991). Pilot work with this animal model of tumor-induced anorexia indicated that changes in gastric emptying do not occur with progressive tumor growth (authors' unpublished data).…”