With personal trainer Ronny Terry

LEPTIN is a hormone that is primarily produced by fat cells and secreted into the circulatory system before moving up towards the brain.

Leptin decreases hunger by telling the brain there is ample fat stored on the body, and food intake is suppressed.

Lower leptin levels will promote feelings of hunger as the body looks to refuel and top up energy reserves. In most instances, the more fat stored on the body, the more leptin is produced.

This usually equates to eating enough to maintain body weight rather than increasing it unnecessarily. Leptin resistance occurs in overweight people when the signalling pathway to the brain is confused.

The higher levels of leptin are not recognised so as far as the brain is concerned, the body needs more food.

This often results in overeating and further weight gain.

Higher levels are thought to increase metabolism, but if the brain can’t recognise the hormone then the rate which energy is burned may decrease.

Having a slowed-down metabolism and being constantly hungry is not good for anyone looking to lose weight.

There is no quick fix to override the complicated mechanisms of the human body and sometimes you may just have to feel a little hungry while looking to lose weight.

Ensure you partake in a nutrient-rich diet including Omega-3 fats and quality protein sources.

Avoid processed, sugary carbohydrates as these are thought to be causative ingredients in the development of leptin resistance.

Get plenty of sleep and take part in regular exercise of a moderate-to-high intensity. www.switchfit.co.uk