Recently, scientists from the French research institute INSERM announced that they have discovered the reason why high-protein diets, such as the Atkins diet, effectively control hunger. They also proposed methods for treating digestive disorders.
The research findings, conducted on mice, were published in the journal Cell Metabolism.
According to the researchers, everyday foods produce glucose in the small intestine, which makes us feel full.
They noted that foods primarily rich in protein can reduce feelings of hunger, leading to lower food intake. However, the appetite-suppressing effects of protein-rich foods are not entirely clear. Previous studies indicated that increasing protein in the diet has minimal effects on hunger hormones.
The research team found that mice consuming a high-protein diet showed increased activity of genes related to glucose production in the animals’ small intestines.
Signs of Brain Damage.
Feeding mice a high-protein diet increased glucose levels in their bodies. This glucose was transmitted to the brain, leading the animals to eat less.
The team, led by Professor Gilles Mithieux, stated that they do not yet understand how protein increases glucose production. However, they believe that protein may reduce the levels of a chemical in circulating cells known as AMP, which can stimulate glucose-producing genes.
Professor Simon Langley-Evans, a nutrition expert at the University of Nottingham, mentioned: “Diets like Atkins seem to enhance weight loss because they reduce hunger.”
“People on these diets tend to eat less, which is hardly surprising. It makes sense that if protein increases glucose levels in the small intestine, it may have medical implications that lead to signs of brain damage and feelings of fullness.”
However, Professor Langley-Evans noted that the glucose produced is also a result of a low-carbohydrate diet.
This raises the question: “What specific effects does a high-protein diet have? Do high-fat diets have similar effects?”
Toni Steer, a nutrition researcher at the Medical Research Council’s nutrition institute, stated that further research is needed to confirm these findings and their impact on human health concerning protein intake.
Toni Steer also remarked, “This may not be the only reason. Additionally, appetite is influenced by chemicals and controlling hormones, and ultimately, by other factors such as psychological and social aspects.”
Translated from BBC
