Dynamic Interplay Among Homeostatic, Hedonic, and Cognitive Feedback Circuits Regulating Body Weight

TLDR

Obesity arises from a persistent imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, regulated by interrelated homeostatic, hedonic, and cognitive feedback systems, yet existing models of these processes are fragmented. The study aims to emphasize the need to consider all three systems and their interactions to understand complex eating behavior. The authors review empirical evidence and dynamic models, highlighting challenges and opportunities for integrating these systems. They conclude that richer models of dynamic interplay among the systems should be prioritized, with systems science modeling offering a promising approach.

Abstract

Obesity is associated with a prolonged imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, both of which are regulated by multiple feedback processes within and across individuals. These processes constitute 3 hierarchical control systems-homeostatic, hedonic, and cognitive-with extensive interaction among them. Understanding complex eating behavior requires consideration of all 3 systems and their interactions. Existing models of these processes are widely scattered, with relatively few attempts to integrate across mechanisms. We briefly review available empirical evidence and dynamic models, discussing challenges and potential for better integration. We conclude that developing richer models of dynamic interplay among systems should be a priority in the future study of obesity and that systems science modeling offers the potential to aid in this goal.