When scientists remove a specific part of the nicotine receptor in the hunger center of mice brains, nicotine can no longer make them eat less — proving that part is essential for suppressing appetite.

Nicotine makes two types of brain cells in the hunger center fire at the same time — one that says 'eat' and one that says 'stop eating' — which confuses the brain and leads to eating less.

Nicotine acts as an appetite suppressant via central nervous system activation of hypothalamic satiety pathways independent of tobacco-derived toxins.

Nicotine might make the brain think food is less filling than it really is, because it keeps the 'hunger signal' active even when you see food — so your brain doesn't realize you're about to eat and you eat less.

Chewing gum with nicotine makes you feel less hungry and more full, so you might not want to eat as much.