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PERSONALIZATION #19: GENETICS OF APPETITE – Another genetic factor in appetite control is the MelanoCortin4 (MCR4) receptor protein found in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus which controls food intake and calorie-burning. A protein called alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone or MSH binds to the MCR4 receptor and sends a signal through other nerves to reduce food intake. MSH hormones are also involved in skin color and come from a larger protein called pro- opiomelanocortin which stimulates cortisol secretion from the adrenal gland. Cortisol goes up with stress, and there is a famous mouse model of obesity that is yellow rather than brown. So food intake is linked to many other systems including stress which makes sense. Low levels of the MCR4 receptor are associated with craving junk foods and obesity. The absence of the MCR4 receptor or a mutation that disables its function causes a severe form of genetic obesity. While rare this is shown in the picture of two brothers- one normal and one with MCR4 obesity found in 6% of all obesity. Whatever your personal genetics of food craving and energy burning, you can overcome cravings with a timed program of Protein-Rich Shakes, Balanced Nutrition and a Healthy Active Lifestyle!! #drdavidheber #obesity #appetite #genetics to learn more go to www.drdavidheber.com and www.herbalifenutritioninstitute.com and read PERSONALIZED NUTRITION AND TRANSFORMATION by Heber and Bowerman on Amazon.com for $5.49

A post shared by Dr. David Heber (@drdavidheber) on Jan 15, 2018 at 5:40am PST