The influence of exercise intensity on appetite regulating hormones GLP-1 and PYY in active healthy adults

Abstract

Exercise is a known contributor to fat loss, its efficacy increasing when combined with an energy-restricted diet in order to create an energy deficit. Claims exist that exercise intensity may influence one’s hunger and energy intake post-exercise, affecting the efficacy of exercise for fat loss. Additionally, women may increase energy intake following exercise to compensate for the increased energy expenditure more than men. This study used a randomized crossover design to examine the effect of exercise intensity on appetite regulating hormones GLP-1 and PYY, and subjective hunger in women, and compared these results to men following endurance cycling. Both sprint interval cycling and continuous endurance cycling influenced the concentration of GLP-1 and PYY, though not differently, and had no influence on perceived hunger. There was no significant difference in the response of these satiety hormones and hunger between men and women following endurance cycling.