Modulation of taste responsiveness and food preference by obesity and weight loss

摘要: Palatable foods lead to overeating, and it is almost a forgone conclusion that also an important contributor the current obesity epidemic - there even talk about food addiction. However, cause-effect relationship between taste far from clear. As discussed here, substantial evidence for altered sensitivity, taste-guided liking wanting, neural reward processing in obese, but not clear whether such traits cause or secondarily alters these functions. Studies with calorie restriction-induced weight loss bariatric surgery humans animal models suggest at least some of obesity-induced alterations are reversible consequently represent secondary effects obese state. Thus, both genetic non-genetic predisposition acquired functions appear work concert aggravate palatability-induced hyperphagia. In addition, palatability typically associated high energy content, further challenging balance regulation. The mechanisms responsible induced by state, loss, surgery, remain largely unexplored. Better understanding would be helpful designing strategies promote healthier eating prevention accompanying chronic disease risks.