Citicoline Affects Appetite and Cortico-Limbic Responses ...

Impact of Citicoline on Appetite and Brain Responses

Cytidine-5'-diphosphocholine, commonly known as citicoline, is recognized for its cognitive enhancement, neuroprotective, and neuroregenerative properties. Research has shown that citicoline can elevate dopamine levels in the brain while also curbing cravings, particularly in individuals addicted to cocaine. However, its effects on appetite, food cravings, and corresponding brain responses to food stimuli remain largely unexplored.

Research Findings on Citicoline and Appetite

A recent study compared the impact of two dosages of citicoline (500 mg/day versus higher doses) over six weeks on appetite ratings, body weight, and reactions to high-calorie food images using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Although no significant changes were detected in participants' weight, the higher dose group exhibited notable declines in appetite ratings.

Furthermore, this group also showed increased functional brain responses to food stimuli, particularly in regions of the brain such as the amygdala, insula, and lateral orbitofrontal cortex. This increased brain activity correlated positively with lowered appetite ratings, suggesting that citicoline may play a role in appetite modulation.

Functional Imaging and Food Stimuli

In the fMRI scans, participants were shown a series of high-calorie food images, such as cheeseburgers and ice cream, as well as control images that had similar visual complexity but were non-food items. Participants rated their usual appetite on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 indicated no hunger and 10 represented constant hunger. This two-phase observation allowed researchers to assess changes over the study period.

The findings revealed that individuals in the higher dose group not only reported lower appetite ratings but also had increased brain activation in key regions associated with reward processing and food perception.

Cognitive Engagement and Citicoline

Cognitive engagement in food imagery was associated with significant changes in regional brain activation connected to appetite changes. For instance, participants who displayed an increase in activation within the right amygdala and bilateral insula were more likely to report a decrease in appetite over the trial period. This suggests that citicoline may alter how food stimuli are perceived at a neural level, influencing how rewarding these food stimuli feel.

Conclusions and Future Research Directions

While these preliminary findings point toward citicoline's potential in appetite modulation, further investigation is essential, particularly involving larger sample sizes and control groups. It is crucial to explore the dose-dependent effects fully and understand the mechanisms through which citicoline influences appetite. Given its neuroprotective properties, citicoline shows promise not only as a cognitive enhancer but also as a potential agent in managing appetite and weight.

For more insights into citicoline, visit Is Citicoline A Stimulant for detailed information on its properties and effects.

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