New research published in the journal Nature showed that a blood molecule created during exercise can significantly lower food intake and obesity in mice. Dr. Yong Xu, Professor, Pediatrics-nutrition, Baylor, stated that regular exercise has been proven to help in weight loss, regulate appetite, and improve the metabolic profile, especially for overweight and obese people. 

The study included a comprehensive analysis of blood plasma compounds from mice after intense treadmill running. The most significantly induced molecule was a modified amino acid called Lac-Phe, a product synthesized from lactate and phenylalanine. In the mice with diet-induced obesity, a high dose of Lac-Phe suppressed food intake by 50% over 12 hours without affecting the movement or energy expenditure. When administered to the mice for 10 days, Lac-Phe reduced cumulative food intake and body weight and increased glucose tolerance. 

The researchers also identified an enzyme called CNDP2 that was involved in Lac-Phe production. They also found that mice lacking this enzyme did not show a significant weight loss during the exercise regime in comparison to the control group on the same exercise plan. Interestingly, the research team also found a significant elevation in plasma Lac-Phe levels following physical activity in racehorses and humans. Especially, sprint exercise in humans induced the most significant increase in plasma Lac-Phe levels followed by resistance training and endurance training. 

(Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/research-discovers-benefits-of-exercise-resulting-in-a-new-blood-molecule-101656314315463.html )