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PERSONALIZATION #18: GENETICS OF APPETITE? – A small protein in the part of the brain that controls appetite is called BRAIN-DERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR or BDNF because one of its functions is growing nerve endings. A genetic variant in which one amino acid (PVAL66MET) is different affects the activity of this protein which acts through a network of hormones including insulin, leptin, and pancreatic polypeptide. BDNF is decreased in abnormal food restriction and fasting and low levels are associated with obesity and eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia). Low levels are also found in depression, heart diseases, and dementia. The good news is that exercise increases BDNF levels so Balanced Nutrition, being sure to get your right amount of protein with Protein-Rich Shakes and a Healthy Active Lifestyle with daily exercise can overcome a genetic tendency to have lower BDNF levels and can raise BDNF levels in everyone. No single factor controls appetite and next time I will discuss another one-so stay tuned!! #drdavidheber #weightlossjourney #appetite #genetics to learn more go to www.drdavidheber.com and www.herbalifenutritioninstitute.com and read PERSONALIZED NUTRITION AND TRANSFORMATION on Amazon.com for only $5.49 by me and Susan Bowerman.

A post shared by Dr. David Heber (@drdavidheber) on Jan 14, 2018 at 5:38am PST