Researchers from Manchester University have discovered a way to stop us from eating for pleasure, yet only eat when our bodies are hungry.

While the tests proved successful with lab mice, the scientists say it cannot be immediately extrapolated to humans. This finding could lead to creating drugs that stimulate the brain to produce the chemical needed to suppress hunger and even cigarette cravings.

The substance, which occurs naturally in the body, could pave the way for a new class of dieting drugs that help people shed pounds without distressing side effects.

The chemical  -  called hemopressin  -  works by affecting the reward centres of the brain that light up when someone enjoys a comforting snack or cigarette.

Tests have shown that hemopressin blocks these areas of the brain, reducing the reward from eating.