The term ‘You are what you eat’ is a widely known statement but what if there’s much more to that?
The insula is the region of the brain deep in the cerebral cortex and has been reportedly responsible for taste and appetite regulation. According to the ‘American Journal of Psychiatry’, sensation of hunger, appetite and eating habits are interdependent on levels of activity in the insula.
A recent study in the US was conducted to observe if there was a significant correlation between the activity level of insula and eating habits within an individual. Individuals who had been diagnosed with anorexia or bulimia were observed to have significantly reduced and significantly increased levels of activity in the insula respectively. The discovery of this study has hence inspired scientists to conduct studies to further test the theory.
A similar study was conducted where the effects of probiotic yoghurt on the insula was tested. At the end of the study, individuals that were instructed to consume probiotic yoghurt for the study has been proven to have a lower activity in the insula and sematosensory cortex as compared to those who were instructed not to consume any.
My Rehab Team Mobile Dietician can provide you with tailored advice and education on diet and nutrition in the comforts of your home.
Please note that the information presented on this website is for general viewing only. You will need to consult a dietician for advice specific to your needs.
Image courtesy of Suat Eman, at Free Digital Photo. [Online] Available at: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/Other_Food_g134-Foods_p3976.html (Accessed on 14th December, 2014)