5.5 – The role of leptin and ghrelin in nutrient perception and appeti – Sevens Nutrition

In the complex orchestra that regulates how our bodies detect and respond to nutrients, the hormones leptin and ghrelin act as two key voices: one that quells hunger (leptin) and the other that stimulates it (ghrelin). This hormonal system of appetite and satiety regulation is critical for maintaining a healthy body weight and proper energy utilization. However, with aging, this system can become dysfunctional , altering how we perceive the need to eat and how we utilize available nutrients.

This imbalance not only contributes to excess weight or muscle loss, but also affects overall metabolic efficiency , creating a disconnect between what we eat, how we feel, and what our cells actually need.

Leptin: the satiety hormone that loses effectiveness

Leptin is secreted by fat cells and acts as an "energy sufficiency" signal. When there is sufficient fat stored, leptin levels increase and the brain reduces appetite. However, over time—and especially in the context of chronic overweight or aging— leptin resistance can develop, in which the brain fails to respond appropriately to this signal.

This causes a vicious circle:

People continue eating even though they have sufficient reserves.
Increases fatty tissue.
Low-grade inflammation is perpetuated.
Sensitivity to other metabolic signals, such as insulin, is lost.

Ghrelin: The hunger drive that also changes over the years

On the other hand, ghrelin is known as the "hunger hormone." It is produced in the stomach and sends signals to the brain to stimulate appetite, especially when the stomach is empty.

In older people or those with metabolic imbalances, ghrelin levels have been observed to:

Increase disproportionately, promoting emotional or excessive eating.
Or, on the contrary, decrease in cases of malnutrition or sarcopenia, causing loss of appetite and muscle mass.

These changes make it difficult to self-regulate intake, making extremes (obesity or malnutrition) more common with age.

How to restore the balance between leptin and ghrelin

Sleep well : Inadequate sleep disrupts the production of both hormones.
Regular exercise : improves leptin sensitivity and reduces overproduction of ghrelin.
Avoid simple sugars : their frequent consumption disrupts these hormonal signals.
Mindful eating : helps reconnect with real feelings of satiety.

Support from Sevens supplementation

Sevens products can help improve the hormonal environment that regulates appetite:

Omega 3 Sevens , thanks to its anti-inflammatory action, can help improve sensitivity to leptin by reducing inflammation in adipose tissue, a key factor in resistance to this hormone.
Magnesium Sevens participates in the regulation of the nervous system and hormone synthesis, promoting a better response to satiety signals.
BIO Sevens Turmeric may help reduce systemic inflammation that interferes with hormonal signaling of the hunger-satiety axis.

Conclusion

Leptin and ghrelin are two hormones essential for maintaining the balance between food intake and the body's nutritional status. When these signals are altered—as often happens with age—the connection between what we need to eat and what we actually consume is lost. With a combination of proper nutrition, healthy habits, and the support of Sevens supplements , it is possible to restore this hormonal dialogue and regain intelligent regulation of metabolism, hunger, and longevity.