Vagus Nerve Impacts on Appetite and Weight Management

Scientific Literature Review | Graduate Academic Writing | 2018

ABSTRACT

Objective: The objective of this review is to address aspects of appetite and weight management as mediated by the vagus nerve, with specific attention to features differing between obese and lean individuals, and discussing potential clinical strategies to ameliorate these imbalances.

Methods: A literature review was completed via a database search in MEDLINE Complete and PubMed.The following search terms were used: “Vagus Nerve” “Vagal Tone” “Gut-Brain-Axis” “Vagus Nerve Stimulation” “Heart Rate Variability.” Greater than 5000 articles matched this search criteria, and articles were chosen with respect to full-text availability, and English language.

Discussion: Considering the importance of weight management in health and the complications many individuals face in overcoming weight imbalances, this review discusses the bi-directional communication in the gut-brain-axis. It looks at mechanisms that help regulate appetite and consequently weight management. Multiple hormones play a role in regulating communication between appetite and the central nervous system, and the vagus nerve is a central player in this process. Thus, this review discusses difference between obese and lean individuals pertaining to vagal tone, and considers potential targeted clinical approaches regarding the vagus nerve, that may improve future weight management strategies.

Conclusion: The vagus nerve plays an important bi-directional role in appetite regulation. Individuals struggling with weight management will likely benefit from approaches that address the gut-brain-axis as an instrumental component of weight management.

Key Words: Vagus Nerve; Vagal Tone; Gut-Brain-Axis; Vagus Nerve Stimulation; Heart Rate Variability;CCK; PPY; Ghrelin; Leptinit the article content or add new blocks...