In addition to transmitting vital satiety-related messages to the brain, CCK performs another very important

and useful physiological function. It is, in fact, a critical catalyst for the proper digestion of food in the intestinal tract. CCK does this by triggering the release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas. In addition, it causes contraction of the gall bladder to deliver bile into the duodenum, and stimulates secretion of bile salts into the biliary system. In fact, its very name, cholecystokinin, means “to move the gall bladder”.

By ensuring the availability of bile salts and enzymes to properly break down large macromolecules (proteins, polysaccharides, and triglycerides) into small molecules (amino acids, monosaccharides, and fatty acids) used by our bodies as all-important “building blocks”, CCK further enhances the overall performance of our metabolic system. This puts an end to nutrient deficiencies, which often are the underlying reason for food cravings. As a result, our body assimilates more vital nutrients, needs less food to satisfy its basic nutrient needs, and a lasting feeling of satiety is effectively achieved.