| خلاصه مقاله | Hedonic hunger, characterized by eating palatable foods such as sweets and fast foods for pleasure rather than to satisfy physiological needs, has been identified as an important factor contributing to overeating and obesity in recent years. In hedonic hunger, reward pathways in the brain are activated by dopamine. Some biochemical parameters, such as endocannabinoids and opioids, can indirectly help activate the brain's reward pathways by increasing dopamine release. Some studies indicate that a higher diet intake of saturated fatty acids may enhance hedonic hunger. This review aims to investigate the proposed mechanisms related to the role of dietary saturated fatty acids in hedonic hunger. Research has shown that saturated fatty acids can affect hedonic hunger in several ways. First, these fatty acids can directly increase dopamine release in the brain and thus increase hedonic hunger. Secondly, these fatty acids can increase the signaling of opioids in the brain and indirectly increase dopamine concentration in the brain, thereby increasing hedonic hunger. Thirdly, by reducing serum leptin levels and leptin signaling as an appetite-suppressing hormone, they increase hedonic hunger. Based on the suggested mechanisms, it seems that in controlling overeating and obesity, the amount of saturated fatty acids in the diet is of great importance regarding hedonic hunger and food intake. |