ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which hormone provides short-term information about hunger and satiety; slows emptying of the stomach and sends satiety signals to the hypothalamus?

1. Insulin

2. Leptin

3. Cholecystokinin

4. Ghrelin

The correct answer is: Cholecystokinin

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the digestive process and in regulating hunger and satiety. It is released from the cells in the lining of the small intestine in response to the presence of food, particularly fats and proteins. One of the key functions of CCK is to slow gastric emptying, which helps to prolong the feeling of fullness after eating. This slow emptying process means that food remains in the stomach longer, which contributes to increased satiety. Furthermore, CCK signals the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, to indicate that the body has received enough food, thereby helping to reduce hunger and prevent overeating. This signaling mechanism is essential for maintaining energy balance and regulating appetite effectively. The other hormones mentioned have different roles in hunger regulation and satiety; for example, insulin is involved in glucose metabolism and has a longer-term effect on hunger, while leptin regulates long-term energy balance and fat storage, and ghrelin primarily stimulates hunger. Therefore, CCK is the specific hormone known for providing short-term signals about hunger and satiety, making it the correct answer.