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As a part of the study the researchers analyzed the effect of estrogen on the ability of nerve cells to make new connections in the hypothalamus. They also measured the associated feeding behaviour and energy expenditure of the animals.

The boffins found that estrogen is a strong regulator of energy metabolism through the brain. They found that while the pathway of estrogen-induced intracellular signalling merges with that of leptin, estrogen's effect on feeding and obesity is independent from leptin or the leptin receptor.

"We found that estrogen suppresses appetite using the same pathways in the brain as the adipose hormone leptin," said Horvath.

This is exactly what I experienced when I went on HRT.  I would always order a certain amount of food from this one restaurant and after I was on HRT, I found I had to reduce what I ordered because I would feel way too full to finish what I was ordering before.  I have also noticed that I tend to be hungrier more often throughout the day.  I presume this is because I am eating less than before.

I just checked my diary and it was about 2 and a half months in that I started noticing this.

Melissa

Oh my... I am *constantly* eating since HRT. I cannot get enough. I CRAVE it more than just feeling hungry... cheeses, salty stuff, pizza... not so much sweets though. Godiva dark chocolate is an exception...

It's odd though, I used to eat ice cream every day. Loved it. Now... eh... it's OK, but I don't crave it at all. Maybe if you sprinkle salt and cheese on it... hmmm....

Hey... it's lunchtime!

Kate