Neuroendocrinologist Dr. Zane Andrews has discovered that key appetite control cells in the human brain degenerate over time, causing increased hunger and potentially weight-gain as you grow older.

Appetite-suppressing cells are attacked by free radicals after eating; the degeneration is more significant following meals rich in carbohydrates and sugars.

"The more carbs and sugars you eat, the more your appetite-control cells are damaged, and potentially you consume more," Dr Andrews said.

The attack on appetite-suppressing cells creates a cellular imbalance between your need to eat and the message to your brain that tell you when to stop eating.