Skip to main content

Homeostatic Feeding

Meaning

Homeostatic feeding is the fundamental physiological drive to consume food primarily in response to an energy deficit, functioning as a tightly regulated mechanism to maintain the body’s energy balance and stable weight. This type of feeding behavior is governed by internal signals of hunger and satiety that reflect the current nutritional status and energy stores of the organism. It is distinct from hedonic feeding, which is driven by pleasure and environmental cues. The integrity of the homeostatic feeding system is essential for preventing both malnutrition and excessive weight gain.