What hormone is integral in suppressing appetite?

• A. Ghrelin
• B. Leptin
• C. Cortisol
• D. Insulin

Answer: (B)

Leptin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating energy balance, particularly in the context of suppressing appetite. It is produced by adipose (fat) tissue and serves as a signal to the brain regarding the energy reserves in the body. When fat stores are sufficient, leptin levels increase, which in turn promotes the sensation of fullness or satiety. This process helps to prevent overeating by signaling to the hypothalamus that the body has enough energy stored and does not need additional food intake.

In contrast, other hormones mentioned, such as ghrelin, stimulate appetite rather than suppress it, while cortisol is associated with stress responses and can influence metabolism but is not primarily involved in appetite suppression. Insulin, on the other hand, is related to blood sugar regulation and can have some appetite-suppressing effects after meals; however, its primary role is not appetite suppression but rather glucose homeostasis. Therefore, leptin is the hormone specifically responsible for communicating energy sufficiency and reducing the desire to eat.