Fats and satiety

Abstract

Fat is an important macronutrient with a high caloric density. Therefore, considerable interest exists in how fat exerts an effect on satiety and food intake, and how this effect can be increased. Here, we will discuss how digestion of fat leads to fatty acid sensing by oral and intestinal receptors, which in turn influences satiety and food intake. A number of strategies that have been developed to increase the satiating effect of fat will be discussed. A better understanding of the precise mechanisms of fatty acid sensing will assist in the development of effective ligands that maximize the satiating effect of dietary fats.