IMPACT OF THE LOW CARB DIET ON HORMONAL BALANCE AND APPETITE REGULATION

Abstract

The low carb diet, characterized by carbohydrate restriction and higher intake of proteins and fats, has been widely studied as a nutritional strategy aimed at weight loss and the modulation of hormones related to appetite and energy metabolism. This article aims to analyze, through a review of scientific literature, the impact of the low carb diet on hormonal balance and appetite regulation, highlighting its physiological effects and clinical applications in different populations. Alterations in the release of hormones such as insulin, ghrelin, leptin, GLP-1 and PYY, as well as the action of ketone bodies in the central nervous system, were investigated. The results indicate that the low carb diet contributes to greater satiety, lower spontaneous caloric intake and improved hormonal sensitivity, favoring weight loss and the control of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome. The study also discusses limitations, adverse effects, and precautions in the application of this approach, emphasizing the importance of individualizing the eating plan. It can be concluded that, when applied with professional monitoring and technical criteria, the low carb diet can be an effective tool in promoting hormonal balance and appetite control, in addition to presenting relevant metabolic benefits.