Insertion of weighted implants in mice has resulted in the reversal of diet-induced obesity and improved glucose tolerance, independent of leptin and energy expenditure. The effect was attributed to osteocyte signalling from weight-bearing long bones. This suggests the existence of a body weight sensing “gravitostat” mechanism within bones implicated in the regulation of fat mass. In an initial attempt to translate these findings to humans, we examined the feasibility of prolonged weight bearing in free-living conditions and its short-term effects on appetite. In a counterbalanced cross-over design, participants (N=10) wore weighted vests for 7 days (vs 7 of non-wear). The vests (mean loading 13.4% of body weight) were worn on average 8.31 hours per day. Comfort ratings remained stable for the 7 days. Exercise, social context and appearance were the main reasons for removal. Mean hourly ratings of hunger and craving for snack were marginally lower in the vest condition compared to control despite the added loading, with a more pronounced reduction in daily peak hunger. Further assessment of the ‘gravitostat’ mechanism in humans may be a promising novel avenue for obesity management.
