Scientists have discovered a hidden mechanism of eating behavior: Food selection involves your brain, liver and intestines

Modern science always surprises us with new facts about human brain and body, and this time is no exception.

Researchers from Neuron Journal claim that not only our brain, but also liver and intestines are involved in choosing what food you prefer the most.

Here's how they understood it.

A surprising fact

Researchers from Portugal and the US have discovered a new "post-digestive" axis that influences food choices. 

The brain, gut, and liver collaborate in deciding what food to select. 

While it was previously thought that the brain determines food suitability when it enters the mouth, the study found that crucial decisions are made in the intestines. 

Studying mice helped a lot

By studying mice, scientists observed post-digestive processes that transmit signals to the brain. 

They designed an experiment where mice pressed levers to receive food directly into their stomachs, eliminating taste influence. 

The findings highlighted the involvement of the vagus nerve, connecting the brain to internal organs, including the intestines and liver. 

Cutting the hepatic branch of the nerve disrupted the mice's ability to discern nutritional value. 

Additionally, dopamine, a molecule associated with cognitive processes, was found to be responsible for food learning in the brain.
 

• Related news:
• overeating
• science
• eating habits
• research
• 17 June 2023

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