The connection between different exercise levels, gender, and how the body regulates hunger has been a topic of growing interest. Ghrelin, commonly called the “hunger hormone,” comes in two forms—acylated ghrelin and deacylated ghrelin—that play distinct roles in appetite control. Acylated ghrelin is the active form responsible for increasing hunger, while deacylated ghrelin has more complex and less understood effects. A recent study by Dr. Kara Anderson and her team from the University of Virginia looked at how exercise intensity and gender affect these forms of ghrelin and hunger sensations in adults who do not regularly exercise. Their findings were published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society.
Researchers recruited a group of men and women who were non-smokers, maintained a stable weight, and were in a healthy weight range. These participants went through three different sessions: one with no exercise, one with moderate cycling, and one with high-intensity cycling. Blood samples were analyzed to measure ghrelin levels, a method that reveals the hormonal changes in the bloodstream, and hunger surveys were used to track sensations of appetite during and after each session. Women showed higher baseline levels of both acylated ghrelin and deacylated ghrelin compared to men, which aligns with earlier findings suggesting that hormones like estrogen may play a role in enhancing these levels.
Scientists found that high-intensity exercise significantly lowered both types of ghrelin in both men and women. High-intensity exercise, defined as an activity that raises the heart rate and breathing substantially, seemed to have a stronger impact. “The decrease was especially noticeable in women, suggesting that gender might influence how the body reacts to intense exercise,” commented Dr. Anderson. Moderate-intensity exercise, which involves a moderate but sustainable effort such as brisk walking or light cycling, increased feelings of hunger, but high-intensity exercise seemed to manage these feelings better, particularly in women.
Surprisingly, high-intensity exercise was more effective than moderate-intensity exercise in reducing the specific form of ghrelin closely linked to hunger. As Dr. Anderson explained, “Our findings highlight the potential of high-intensity workouts as an effective way to manage appetite, which could have significant benefits for weight control strategies.” This suggests that beyond simply burning calories, the intensity of exercise influences the hormonal signals that regulate hunger.
The research sheds light on the complex interactions between exercise, hunger, and the body’s hunger-related hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the blood to regulate various processes, including appetite. It underscores the importance of tailoring exercise routines to fit individual needs, particularly when addressing weight management or hunger-related issues.
Journal Reference
Anderson, K. C., Mardian, T., Stephenson, B., Grammer, E. E., Stahl, M. E., Weeldreyer, N. R., Liu, Z., Love, K. M., Kranz, S., Allen, J. D., & Weltman, A. (2024). “The Impact of Exercise Intensity and Sex on Endogenous Ghrelin Levels and Appetite in Healthy Humans.” Journal of the Endocrine Society. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1210/jendso/bvae165
About the Author
Dr. Kara Anderson is a prominent researcher and academic specializing in exercise physiology and its impact on hormonal and metabolic health. She serves as a researcher at the University of Virginia, where her work focuses on exploring the intricate relationship between physical activity, hormones, and appetite regulation. With a deep interest in how exercise intensity influences key hunger-regulating hormones, Dr. Anderson has contributed valuable insights into the role of acylated and deacylated ghrelin in human physiology. Her research aims to inform strategies for weight management and health optimization through tailored exercise interventions.
Dr. Anderson holds advanced degrees in kinesiology and medicine, equipping her with a comprehensive understanding of human movement and its physiological effects. She is also dedicated to mentoring emerging scientists and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to advance health and fitness research. Her work bridges the gap between academic theory and practical applications, helping individuals achieve healthier lifestyles.
