This Type of Exercise Could Suppress Appetite, Study Finds

Healthier eating and portion control is a critical part of any weight loss journey, with exercise making up the other crucial component. It turns out that doing one might actually help with the other. 

A new study published Oct. 24 in the Journal of the Endocrine Society outlines what researchers found when investigating the link between exercise intensity and production of ghrelin, a hunger hormone that increases our drive to eat. The small trial involved 14 participants as scientists observed how exercise sessions affected their appetite. 

“We found that high-intensity exercise suppressed ghrelin levels more than moderate-intensity exercise. In addition, we found that individuals felt ‘less hungry’ after high-intensity exercise compared to moderate-intensity exercise,” study lead author Kara Anderson told Men’s Health. However, it only applies to strenuous exercise, as moderate exercise led to higher ghrelin levels than those observed in a non-exercising control group. 

It’s a limited study, of course, and the researchers noted in the paper that more work needs to be done to further pinpoint the relationship between these two phenomena. Men in particular also saw less of a reduction in ghrelin compared to women. Still, it could come as useful information for those looking to stave off hunger while upping their exercise regimen. 

“Exercise should be thought of as a ‘drug,’ where the ‘dose’ should be customized based on an individual’s personal goals,” Anderson said. “Our research suggests that high-intensity exercise may be important for appetite suppression, which can be particularly useful as part of a weight loss program.”

Before testing out the team’s conclusions for yourself, consult your doctor to determine what you should be eating every day and how much you should be working out.