The hypothalamus is the brain’s weight regulation center—a small region that integrates signals from hormones (insulin, leptin, ghrelin), nutrients, and the nervous system to control hunger, satiety, and energy expenditure. Research by Fothergill on Biggest Loser contestants showed metabolic rates suppressed by hundreds of calories daily—even years after dieting. The hypothalamus maintains a defended “set point” that fights weight loss through increased hunger and decreased metabolism.
This companion covers the command center’s key players, hormonal inputs, set point defense, how the set point can change, and why hormonal approaches may succeed where calorie restriction fails. (4 min read)