Carbohydrates and human appetite

Abstract

Experiments indicate that exposure to high-carbohydrate foods can give rise to a clear modulation of the expression of human appetite. The potency and time course of the effects of various carbohydrates on satiety vary with the amount consumed and the chemical structure. There is evidence that this biological effect can modulate the temporal profile of hunger and the eating pattern of meals and snacks. One important issue is the action of carbohydrate foods on satiation (within meals) and satiety (after meals). These effects can be compared with the effects of high-fat foods. The physiological mechanisms through which carbohydrates exert an action on appetite are not completely identified, although plasma glucose values are likely to play a role. The experimental evidence suggests that it is possible to design high-carbohydrate diets that provide good nutrition with adequate control over appetite and a beneficial effect on body weight.