The feelings of hunger and fullness are regulated by specific centers within the brain. The hypothalamus is a key structure involved in controlling appetite and satiety.
The lateral hypothalamus is recognized as a primary center that stimulates feelings of hunger. When this area is activated, it prompts the drive to eat.
The ventromedial hypothalamus plays a significant role in signaling satiety, the feeling of being full. Its activation typically leads to the cessation of eating.
Therefore, the lateral hypothalamus is associated with hunger, and the ventromedial hypothalamus is associated with the feeling of fullness.