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In this mini lecture, Dr. Ben Bikman introduces asprosin, a hormone released primarily by fat tissue that helps regulate both blood sugar and hunger. Unlike leptin, which generally signals the brain to reduce appetite, asprosin appears to do the opposite. During fasting, it tells the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream while also activating areas of the brain that encourage eating. These effects may be helpful when food is scarce, but could contribute to metabolic problems when the hormone remains elevated.
Ben reviews research showing that asprosin levels are often higher in people with obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Animal studies suggest that blocking asprosin can reduce hunger, lower blood glucose, and improve metabolic health. However, human research remains limited, and inconsistent laboratory measurements make it difficult to know exactly how much asprosin contributes to metabolic disease.
He also compares asprosin with other appetite-related hormones, including ghrelin, leptin, and GLP-1, explaining how each sends different signals about hunger and energy availability. The central takeaway is that body fat is much more than a place to store calories. It is an active hormonal organ that communicates with the brain and liver, helping regulate how hungry we feel and how much glucose enters the bloodstream.
References:
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NOTE: The information presented is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Bikman is not a clinician—and, he is not your doctor. Always seek the advice of your own qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
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