As obese people are constantly producing higher levels of leptin, their body becomes progressively desensitised to the hormone. This means they are more likely to feel hungry, less likely to recognise when they are full and are hence more likely to overeat. Leptin resistance also develops with age, increasing the potential for weight gain later in life (e.g. the 'middle-age spread'). Theoretically leptin hormone would reduce hunger and limit food intake in obese individuals, leading to weight loss.

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