Foods to Help the Hypothalamus - Your hypothalamus is an area of your brain that controls your hormones. This brain area is responsible for body temperature, mood, sex drive, release of hormones and sleep. The hypothalamus also plays a role in your feelings of hunger and thirst. Since this part of your brain is so important, it makes sense to nurture it by eating the right foods. Certain foods support the health of your hypothalamus, which in turn helps keep your entire body healthy.