The science of feeling full: What you need to know about appetite suppressants

Think of your body as a busy factory. Hormones are like messengers that tell different parts of the factory what to do. When you haven't eaten for a while, your stomach sends out a "hunger hormone" message. When you've eaten enough, other hormones send a "I'm full" message to your brain.

Appetite suppressants work by changing these messages. Some of them trick your brain into thinking your tummy is full, even if you haven't eaten a lot. They do this by affecting special chemicals in your brain called "neurotransmitters". These are like tiny postal workers carrying messages between brain cells. Two important ones are serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a part in how hungry or full you feel.

Other medicines, like the newer ones called GLP-1 agonists (like Wegovy or Mounjaro), work a bit differently. They copy a natural hormone in your body that helps slow down how quickly your food moves through your tummy. This means you feel full for longer, and they also send "I'm full" signals to your brain.

In the UK, you can only get prescription appetite suppressants from a healthcare professional or registered clinician. They are usually only given to adults who are overweight and have other health problems that could get better if they lose weight, like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

Scientists are always learning more about these medicines. A recent study showed that Wegovy has benefits at reducing cardiovascular risk (less chance of a heart attack or stroke) even if you do not lose any weight on it.

You might see things advertised online or in shops that say they are "appetite suppressants". But many of these are not properly tested and might not be safe or even work. The NHS warns that some of these unregulated products can be dangerous.

Even the medicines prescribed by doctors can have side effects, like feeling sick, having a headache, or an upset tummy. That's why it's so important that a clinician keeps a close eye on anyone taking them.

Doctors and scientists agree that simply trying to lose weight by only using medicines might not be the best idea in the long run. They say that a healthy lifestyle is also important. This means:

• Eating healthy foods: Foods like chicken, fish, beans, and whole grains make you feel full for longer.
• Drinking enough water: Sometimes, your body thinks it's hungry when it's thirsty.
• Being active: Playing sports, running around, or going for walks helps your body stay strong and healthy.
• Mindful eating: This means paying attention to your food and how you feel when you eat, so you know when you're truly full.

Appetite suppressants are powerful tools, but they are just one part of helping someone lead a healthier life. The real secret to feeling good is usually a mix of healthy food, exercise, and listening to your body's signals. Always talk to a clinician if you have questions about your health.