Appetite, the desire to eat, is regulated by the hypothalamus gland in the forebrain, which also controls other functions like sleep and sexual activity. Appetite is subject to factors other than essential bodily needs. It can be lost just by looking at food, or after one mouthful. Hunger plays only a small part in the appetite's demands. The sensation of fullness takes 20 minutes to affect hunger, and appetite can continue well after this, especially in the case of those with bulimia nervosa. Conditioned eating habits, emotions and the amount of exercise being taken all affect the appetite. Anorexia nervosa can seriously impair its function, too. Appetite changes can also be experienced during pregnancy, sometimes incorporating unusual food cravings which cease after the birth.

Maintaining A Healthy Appetite Appetite and hunger are linked and play an important role in keeping the body nourished.

Increasing Appetite

Decreasing Appetite

• Eat more slowly, savouring the taste of each mouthful.

• Stop eating periodically during a meal and ensure that you are not still eating when the hunger mechanism has stopped. The less you eat after hunger has gone, the sooner your appetite will adjust.