PSYCH 1XX3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 12: Knockout Mouse, Neuropeptide Y, Opioid Receptor
Document Summary
There are many signals and complex interactions between the brain and digestive system that drive the feeling of hunger. One of the main reasons you feel hungry is low glucose levels. Glucose is important for keeping your body s functions operating and is the. The brain especially needs glucose as it cannot use fat for energy. Glucose levels relate directly to the feelings of hunger. Some glucose is stored in the muscles but the main supply is in the liver as main source of energy glycogen. The glucose-glycogen balance is mediated by the liver and a hormone in the pancreas called insulin. The pancreas secretes insulin to promote the uptake of glucose by cells in your body for immediate use, but also to stimulate storage of excess glucose as glycogen. Over time blood glucose levels will being to dip, and once they get low enough the liver begins to breakdown its stored glycogen into glucose and release it into circulation.
