Neurological Foundation of New Zealand

During pregnancy, appetite is increased as the mother is "eating for two". In fact, mother eats more than required for fetal growth, resulting in increased fat. This increased energy store helps the mother prepare for the future metabolic demands of lactation, and requires changes in the brain mechanisms that normally regulate eating. Such increased weight gain, however, also contributes to rising levels of obesity during pregnancy, which increases chances of obstetric complications. The aim of this study is to enhance understanding of neuroendocrine mechanisms controlling appetite during pregnancy, by measuring changes in neuronal activation in response to anorectic neuropeptides. (α-MSH is a hormone.)