Which part of the brain functions like a "stop-eating" center?

The functionality of the "stop-eating" center is primarily associated with the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus. When activated, this region plays a crucial role in signaling satiety, which helps to regulate food intake and energy balance. It is involved in processing signals from hormones such as leptin and insulin, which inform the body about energy levels and fat reserves.

In contrast, the hypothalamus, while playing a significant role in hunger and satiety regulation overall, encompasses multiple nuclei, including both the ventromedial and lateral areas, which influence the urge to eat as well as the cessation of eating. The ventral tegmental area is primarily linked to reward and motivation systems, particularly involving dopamine pathways, rather than directly regulating hunger or satiety. The amygdala is more involved in emotional responses and does not specifically function as a stop-eating center.

Hence, the ventromedial nucleus is the most precise answer for its specific role in signaling when to stop eating.