LA FAME DENTRO IL CERVELLO

Abstract

The brain has two characteristics in relation to nutrition. The first is to consume 20% of the energy introduced, although it represents only 2% of body weight. In childhood, consumption can reach 60%. The second peculiarity concerns the regulation of the sense of hunger, satiety and thirst. Biological mechanisms for this purpose are reported. Particular attention is given to the function of emotions and feelings on this regulatory system, and the influence of social habits and cultures of different countries. These elements can affect pathologies such as anorexia and bulimia.