Cholecystokinin for Weight Loss

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a compound that occurs naturally in the body but is used as a diagnostic aid by doctors to determine if the pancreas and gallbladder are functioning properly. Because CCK causes the gall bladder to contract and helps the pancreas produce enzymes to aid in digestion, it helps the body realize when to stop eating. Using CCK for weight loss is still in early research stages and should not be used unless under a doctor's care.

Weight Loss

• Using CCK boosters seems like a promising way for those suffering from genetic obesity to lose weight. While CCK may have a role in helping the brain realize satiation has occurred, research on the long-term effects of taking CCK are inconclusive. CCK boosters are available to help those suffering from obesity to lose weight, but a study by Strader and Woods in Gastroenterology determined that the use of CCK in rats had a short-term benefit without long-term success.
  This study also concluded that rats with a mutated CCK receptor did consume slightly larger meals that resulted in what was described as mild obesity over their lifetimes. This validates why many people are looking for CCK to regulate hormone production and help obese people to stop eating sooner.
  Always consult your doctor about the use of CCK and only use this medication under proper medical supervision. The most common side effects of using this drug are stomach cramps, flushing and abdominal discomfort.

CCK Physiology

• CCK is a peptide that helps the small intestine with digestion. This compound is secreted from the duodenum where it stimulates digestive enzymes and bile to aid in breaking down food. According to a report about CCK written by R. Bowen on the ColoState.edu website, injecting CCK directly into the brain ventricles does indeed create a feeling of satiation in animals. However, how large a role CCK plays in food consumption is still unknown and may not be as large as the hopes are for CCK.