Acute Effect of Exercise on Appetite-Related Factors in Males with Obesity

Purpose The interplay between exercise and appetite regulation has been extensively studied, given that exercise-induced energy expenditure can significantly impact energy balance. This study aimed to investigate the role of appetite-related factors, including interleukin 6 (IL-6), irisin, interleukin 7 (IL-7), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and leptin, on appetite perception in males with obesity. Methods Eleven males (body mass 109.8 ± 16.4 kg, body mass index 35.3 ± 4.2 kg/m², V̇O _2peak 29 ± 3.1 mL/kg/min) participated in two experimental trials (MICE: 60 minutes of cycling at 60% of VO _2peak ; CTRL: 60 minutes of quiet resting) using a crossover design. Appetite parameters, including IL-6, IL-7, irisin, and leptin, were measured at 0, 1.25, 2.25, and 3.25 hours. Additionally, appetite perception was assessed at 1-hour intervals. Results IL-6 levels increased significantly immediately post-exercise (95% CI: [2.207–12.192] pg/mL, p = 0.007) and remained elevated 1 hour post-exercise (95% CI: [2.326–11.855] pg/mL, p = 0.006) compared to the control trial. Irisin levels also rose significantly immediately post-exercise (95% CI: [0.084–3.061] ng/mL, p = 0.039). NPY concentration decreased significantly 1 hour post-exercise (95% CI: [(-20.601) - (-1.380)] ng/L, p = 0.027). No significant differences were observed for IL-7 (p = 0.748, \(\:{\eta\:}_{p}^{2}\) = 0.077) and leptin (p = 0.748, \(\:{\eta\:}_{p}^{2}\) = 0.077). Appetite perceptions were suppressed immediately post-exercise (95% CI: [3.407–19.547] mm, p = 0.008) and 1 hour post-exercise (95% CI: [6.252–22.385] mm, p = 0.001) compared to the control. Conclusion Sixty minutes of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) increased IL-6 and irisin levels while suppressing NPY levels and appetite perceptions following moderate intensity aerobic exercise.