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What is the function of endorphins


Functions, Levels, and Natural Boosts

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers, and they can boost your mood, too.

These chemicals are naturally produced by the body during pleasurable activities (e.g., exercise, sex, and laughing), as well as painful experiences, such as twisting your ankle.

Though most people are familiar with having an “endorphin rush” after a fun activity, you may wonder what endorphins are and how they benefit your health.

This article dives deep into endorphins, including why we need them and tips on how to naturally increase their levels.

Endorphins, also known as endogenous opioids, are groups of protein chains called peptides. They’re mostly controlled and released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland (1, 2).

They’re a type of neurotransmitter — and in some cases, they’re thought to be hormones, too — that act on opiate receptors to alleviate pain and promote feelings of pleasure (1, 2).

Interestingly, the term endorphin comes from the words “endogenous,” meaning from the body, and “morphine, an opiate pain reliever.

While various forms of endorphins exist, beta-endorphins are the most studied and known for their pain-relieving effects (1, 2).

Though they’re not fully understood, they’re thought to be involved in how we perceive pain and pleasure (2).

For example, endorphins are released during painful experiences, such as when you sprain your ankle, to temporarily relieve pain and discomfort. They’re also released during pleasurable moments, such as eating chocolate, having sex, or exercising (2).

Summary

Endorphins are neurotransmitters that are released by the brain to alleviate pain and promote pleasure.

While research is ongoing, there are many benefits of endorphins (2):

  • reduce pain and discomfort
  • increase pleasure
  • reduce stress, depression, and anxiety
  • attenuate inflammation
  • improve mood
  • boost self-esteem
  • may support a healthy immune system
  • may support memory and cognitive function

Thus, aiming to boost your endorphins can be a great way to support your overall well-being.

Summary

Endorphins have many benefits on the body, including reduced pain and discomfort, better mood and self-esteem, and increased pleasure.

If your body does not produce enough endorphins, you may be at an increased risk of developing certain health conditions or symptoms, such as (3, 4, 5):

  • increased aches and pain
  • an increased risk of depression and anxiety
  • moodiness
  • addiction
  • trouble sleeping

And interestingly, studies have shown that people with migraines have lower blood levels of beta-endorphins (6).

That said, research on endorphin deficiency is scarce, suggesting more research on the topic is needed.

Summary

A lack of endorphins may put you at an increased risk of health issues such as aches, pain, depression, mood swings, and addiction.

Here are 8 ways to naturally boost your endorphins.

1. Exercise

Exercise is well known for its mood-boosting effects and role in decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety (7, 8, 9, 10).

Moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic exercise and strength training can lead to a surge in endorphins, along with other feel-good chemicals such as endocannabinoids, dopamine, and serotonin (11, 12, 13).

Moderate intensity exercise includes activities such as a brisk walk, a gentle bike ride, or gardening. Vigorous intensity exercise includes activities like indoor cycling, playing soccer, running, or skiing.

Fortunately, around as little as 20–30 minutes each day can help boost your endorphin levels (11, 12, 13).

2. Laugh

The saying rings true: Laughter is the best medicine.

Laughing releases endorphins and other feel-good hormones (e.g., dopamine and serotonin) and suppresses stress hormones (e.g., cortisol) to improve mood, reduce pain and stress, lower blood pressure, and support a stronger immune system (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19).

So, if you’re looking for a mood boost, turn on a funny show or hang out with friends who will give you a good laugh.

3. Listen to music

Music goes beyond entertainment — it can support your well-being, too.

Numerous studies have shown that music can promote mild pain-reducing effects by releasing endorphins, which increase a person’s pain threshold. In fact, music therapy is becoming a popular and effective intervention in many hospital settings (20, 21, 22, 23).

Interestingly, it may also help you exercise longer by alleviating some exercise-induced discomfort or pain (24).

Furthermore, upbeat music can also promote a positive mood by releasing endorphins and dopamine (25).

Therefore, try adding your favorite music to your day to boost your health and mood.

4. Get acupuncture

Though part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, acupuncture has recently gained attention in Western medicine as an effective treatment for pain and other disorders.

Though its mechanisms aren’t fully understood, acupuncture involves inserting small needles into the skin to stimulate the central nervous system. This leads to the release of many chemicals, including endorphins (26, 27).

Numerous studies have shown acupuncture to be an effective treatment for pain. Though, it may not be suitable for everyone (28, 29, 30, 31).

5. Eat dark chocolate

There’s some evidence that eating dark chocolate may boost endorphins and other feel-good chemicals, such as dopamine (32).

Dark chocolate is rich in polyphenolic compounds like flavonoids that trigger the brain to release endorphins. It’s also a moderate source of caffeine, which can elicit a boost in mood (32).

Ideally, choose dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa, and stick with a few small squares per serving.

6. Have sex

Having sex increases the release of endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, a hormone and neurotransmitter that is linked to connectedness and trust (33, 34, 35).

It also increases your heart rate and promotes stamina, which can also support your health and mood (33, 34, 35).

7. Dance

Dancing can be entertaining and good for your health.

It’s a form of cardiorespiratory exercise that gets your heart rate up and releases endorphins, which can elevate your mood and decrease pain (36, 37).

Furthermore, dancing in group settings can increase social connectedness and lower stress levels (36, 37).

Whether you’re dancing alone in your kitchen or with your friends, it’s sure to boost your spirits.

8. Meditate

Meditation is a practice that involves training one’s awareness and becoming more mindful and present.

It has been shown to promote health by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest” system. It also reduces the body’s stress response system, which is known as the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis (38, 39, 40, 41).

Additionally, it’s thought that meditation may promote the release of endorphins, as frequent meditators have been shown to have greater pain thresholds, though this mechanism isn’t fully understood (42, 43, 44, 45)

That said, other studies question whether endorphins are at play and suggest it’s more related to one’s acceptance or anticipation of pain (46, 47, 48).

All in all, more research is needed.

Summary

If you want to increase your endorphin levels, try exercising, having sex, eating chocolate, meditating, or any activity that makes you laugh and have a good time.

While they’re often confused for one another, endorphins are not the same as dopamine or endocannabinoids.

Dopamine is a feel-good neurotransmitter and hormone that’s released by the reward center of the brain during times of pleasure, such as during sex, eating delicious food, or watching a comedy show (49, 50, 51).

Though they’re both part of the brain’s reward system, endorphins are quickly released during a specific act, such as exercising, to help alleviate pain and stress. In contrast, dopamine is released slowly and the mood-boosting sensation you feel after the activity.

Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters produced by the body’s endocannabinoid system. They play many roles in the body, such as relieving pain, reducing anxiety, regulating mood, managing appetite and digestion, and improving sleep (52, 53).

Though similar to cannabinoids — the primary chemicals found in cannabis, such as THC — endocannabinoids are naturally produced by the body. Both endocannabinoids and cannabinoids act on cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body (49, 50).

Interestingly, endocannabinoids are mainly responsible for the “runner’s high” that people experience during exercise, which used to be attributed to endorphins.

However, recent research suggests that endocannabinoids lead to feelings of euphoria since they’re easily able to cross the blood-brain barrier, unlike endorphins, which are too large to do that (54, 55).

In most cases, the body releases many neurotransmitters and hormones simultaneously during pain and pleasure, which is why endorphins, endocannabinoids, and dopamine are so closely related (56).

Summary

Though they’re closely related and part of the brain’s reward and pain system, endorphins, dopamine, and endocannabinoids aren’t the same and have distinct effects on the body.

While there is limited research on the topic, some people may become addicted to the “endorphin rush” caused by some activities.

For example, thrill seekers may pursue dangerous activities to get a rush of adrenaline (i.e., epinephrine) and endorphins (57).

Interestingly, one 2016 study including eight mountain climbers observed symptoms of withdrawal (e.g., disengagement, cravings to go climbing, mood swings, and irritability) after avoiding climbing for a period of time (57).

Another example is self-harm, which leads to a rush of endorphins from hurting oneself to “feel” the release of emotional pain. A person may become addicted to the endorphin rush and continue to self-harm to obtain this feeling of emotional release (58).

However, more research is needed to better understand endorphin addiction.

Summary

Though the mechanisms are not well understood, some people may become addicted to habits that lead to a surge in endorphins.

Though endorphins and opioids act on the same receptors, known as opioid receptors, they have important differences.

Opioid drugs (e.g., morphine and fentanyl) act on opioid receptors to release dopamine, the feel-good chemical produced by the brain. The effects of these drugs are temporary and soon subside, which usually pushes a person to want to repeat this sensation (59).

After long-term use of opioids, the body becomes accustomed to the higher levels of dopamine and requires a larger dose to obtain the same benefits. This cycle repeats itself and leads to a constant search to achieve the same “high” as before (59).

Ultimately, opioid drugs can be highly addictive and lead to a decreased ability to feel pleasure from other rewarding activities, such as eating food, socializing, and having sex (59).

Withdrawal from opioid drugs can lead to serious side effects that sometimes resemble a person going through grief, such as anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and mood swings.

Contrarily, endorphins act similarly to help manage pain but have a less intense response. They’re naturally produced by the body and usually do not reach levels of saturation that require more of the activity to promote that same feeling of pleasure (60, 61).

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, speak with a healthcare professional, visit samsa.gov (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), or call their helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Summary

Opioids are drugs that attach to opioid receptors in the brain to promote feelings of pleasure and alleviate pain. Endorphins also act on opioid receptors, but they don’t have the same addictive properties and are naturally made by the body.

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain reliever and also promote pleasure. They’re produced during activities such as exercise, sex, laughter, dancing, and listening to music.

They have many health benefits, including reduced rates of depression and anxiety, improved mood, decreased pain and discomfort, and increased self-esteem.

While endorphins can be helpful for some people, they may not work for everyone. If you find that you’re having difficulty regulating your mood or managing pain, speak with your healthcare provider, who may recommend additional therapies and treatment.

That said, finding ways to naturally increase your endorphins can be a simple yet effective way to promote your health and well-being.

Functions, Levels, and Natural Boosts

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers, and they can boost your mood, too.

These chemicals are naturally produced by the body during pleasurable activities (e.g., exercise, sex, and laughing), as well as painful experiences, such as twisting your ankle.

Though most people are familiar with having an “endorphin rush” after a fun activity, you may wonder what endorphins are and how they benefit your health.

This article dives deep into endorphins, including why we need them and tips on how to naturally increase their levels.

Endorphins, also known as endogenous opioids, are groups of protein chains called peptides. They’re mostly controlled and released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland (1, 2).

They’re a type of neurotransmitter — and in some cases, they’re thought to be hormones, too — that act on opiate receptors to alleviate pain and promote feelings of pleasure (1, 2).

Interestingly, the term endorphin comes from the words “endogenous,” meaning from the body, and “morphine, an opiate pain reliever.

While various forms of endorphins exist, beta-endorphins are the most studied and known for their pain-relieving effects (1, 2).

Though they’re not fully understood, they’re thought to be involved in how we perceive pain and pleasure (2).

For example, endorphins are released during painful experiences, such as when you sprain your ankle, to temporarily relieve pain and discomfort. They’re also released during pleasurable moments, such as eating chocolate, having sex, or exercising (2).

Summary

Endorphins are neurotransmitters that are released by the brain to alleviate pain and promote pleasure.

While research is ongoing, there are many benefits of endorphins (2):

  • reduce pain and discomfort
  • increase pleasure
  • reduce stress, depression, and anxiety
  • attenuate inflammation
  • improve mood
  • boost self-esteem
  • may support a healthy immune system
  • may support memory and cognitive function

Thus, aiming to boost your endorphins can be a great way to support your overall well-being.

Summary

Endorphins have many benefits on the body, including reduced pain and discomfort, better mood and self-esteem, and increased pleasure.

If your body does not produce enough endorphins, you may be at an increased risk of developing certain health conditions or symptoms, such as (3, 4, 5):

  • increased aches and pain
  • an increased risk of depression and anxiety
  • moodiness
  • addiction
  • trouble sleeping

And interestingly, studies have shown that people with migraines have lower blood levels of beta-endorphins (6).

That said, research on endorphin deficiency is scarce, suggesting more research on the topic is needed.

Summary

A lack of endorphins may put you at an increased risk of health issues such as aches, pain, depression, mood swings, and addiction.

Here are 8 ways to naturally boost your endorphins.

1. Exercise

Exercise is well known for its mood-boosting effects and role in decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety (7, 8, 9, 10).

Moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic exercise and strength training can lead to a surge in endorphins, along with other feel-good chemicals such as endocannabinoids, dopamine, and serotonin (11, 12, 13).

Moderate intensity exercise includes activities such as a brisk walk, a gentle bike ride, or gardening. Vigorous intensity exercise includes activities like indoor cycling, playing soccer, running, or skiing.

Fortunately, around as little as 20–30 minutes each day can help boost your endorphin levels (11, 12, 13).

2. Laugh

The saying rings true: Laughter is the best medicine.

Laughing releases endorphins and other feel-good hormones (e.g., dopamine and serotonin) and suppresses stress hormones (e.g., cortisol) to improve mood, reduce pain and stress, lower blood pressure, and support a stronger immune system (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19).

So, if you’re looking for a mood boost, turn on a funny show or hang out with friends who will give you a good laugh.

3. Listen to music

Music goes beyond entertainment — it can support your well-being, too.

Numerous studies have shown that music can promote mild pain-reducing effects by releasing endorphins, which increase a person’s pain threshold. In fact, music therapy is becoming a popular and effective intervention in many hospital settings (20, 21, 22, 23).

Interestingly, it may also help you exercise longer by alleviating some exercise-induced discomfort or pain (24).

Furthermore, upbeat music can also promote a positive mood by releasing endorphins and dopamine (25).

Therefore, try adding your favorite music to your day to boost your health and mood.

4. Get acupuncture

Though part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, acupuncture has recently gained attention in Western medicine as an effective treatment for pain and other disorders.

Though its mechanisms aren’t fully understood, acupuncture involves inserting small needles into the skin to stimulate the central nervous system. This leads to the release of many chemicals, including endorphins (26, 27).

Numerous studies have shown acupuncture to be an effective treatment for pain. Though, it may not be suitable for everyone (28, 29, 30, 31).

5. Eat dark chocolate

There’s some evidence that eating dark chocolate may boost endorphins and other feel-good chemicals, such as dopamine (32).

Dark chocolate is rich in polyphenolic compounds like flavonoids that trigger the brain to release endorphins. It’s also a moderate source of caffeine, which can elicit a boost in mood (32).

Ideally, choose dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa, and stick with a few small squares per serving.

6. Have sex

Having sex increases the release of endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, a hormone and neurotransmitter that is linked to connectedness and trust (33, 34, 35).

It also increases your heart rate and promotes stamina, which can also support your health and mood (33, 34, 35).

7. Dance

Dancing can be entertaining and good for your health.

It’s a form of cardiorespiratory exercise that gets your heart rate up and releases endorphins, which can elevate your mood and decrease pain (36, 37).

Furthermore, dancing in group settings can increase social connectedness and lower stress levels (36, 37).

Whether you’re dancing alone in your kitchen or with your friends, it’s sure to boost your spirits.

8. Meditate

Meditation is a practice that involves training one’s awareness and becoming more mindful and present.

It has been shown to promote health by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest” system. It also reduces the body’s stress response system, which is known as the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis (38, 39, 40, 41).

Additionally, it’s thought that meditation may promote the release of endorphins, as frequent meditators have been shown to have greater pain thresholds, though this mechanism isn’t fully understood (42, 43, 44, 45)

That said, other studies question whether endorphins are at play and suggest it’s more related to one’s acceptance or anticipation of pain (46, 47, 48).

All in all, more research is needed.

Summary

If you want to increase your endorphin levels, try exercising, having sex, eating chocolate, meditating, or any activity that makes you laugh and have a good time.

While they’re often confused for one another, endorphins are not the same as dopamine or endocannabinoids.

Dopamine is a feel-good neurotransmitter and hormone that’s released by the reward center of the brain during times of pleasure, such as during sex, eating delicious food, or watching a comedy show (49, 50, 51).

Though they’re both part of the brain’s reward system, endorphins are quickly released during a specific act, such as exercising, to help alleviate pain and stress. In contrast, dopamine is released slowly and the mood-boosting sensation you feel after the activity.

Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters produced by the body’s endocannabinoid system. They play many roles in the body, such as relieving pain, reducing anxiety, regulating mood, managing appetite and digestion, and improving sleep (52, 53).

Though similar to cannabinoids — the primary chemicals found in cannabis, such as THC — endocannabinoids are naturally produced by the body. Both endocannabinoids and cannabinoids act on cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body (49, 50).

Interestingly, endocannabinoids are mainly responsible for the “runner’s high” that people experience during exercise, which used to be attributed to endorphins.

However, recent research suggests that endocannabinoids lead to feelings of euphoria since they’re easily able to cross the blood-brain barrier, unlike endorphins, which are too large to do that (54, 55).

In most cases, the body releases many neurotransmitters and hormones simultaneously during pain and pleasure, which is why endorphins, endocannabinoids, and dopamine are so closely related (56).

Summary

Though they’re closely related and part of the brain’s reward and pain system, endorphins, dopamine, and endocannabinoids aren’t the same and have distinct effects on the body.

While there is limited research on the topic, some people may become addicted to the “endorphin rush” caused by some activities.

For example, thrill seekers may pursue dangerous activities to get a rush of adrenaline (i.e., epinephrine) and endorphins (57).

Interestingly, one 2016 study including eight mountain climbers observed symptoms of withdrawal (e. g., disengagement, cravings to go climbing, mood swings, and irritability) after avoiding climbing for a period of time (57).

Another example is self-harm, which leads to a rush of endorphins from hurting oneself to “feel” the release of emotional pain. A person may become addicted to the endorphin rush and continue to self-harm to obtain this feeling of emotional release (58).

However, more research is needed to better understand endorphin addiction.

Summary

Though the mechanisms are not well understood, some people may become addicted to habits that lead to a surge in endorphins.

Though endorphins and opioids act on the same receptors, known as opioid receptors, they have important differences.

Opioid drugs (e.g., morphine and fentanyl) act on opioid receptors to release dopamine, the feel-good chemical produced by the brain. The effects of these drugs are temporary and soon subside, which usually pushes a person to want to repeat this sensation (59).

After long-term use of opioids, the body becomes accustomed to the higher levels of dopamine and requires a larger dose to obtain the same benefits. This cycle repeats itself and leads to a constant search to achieve the same “high” as before (59).

Ultimately, opioid drugs can be highly addictive and lead to a decreased ability to feel pleasure from other rewarding activities, such as eating food, socializing, and having sex (59).

Withdrawal from opioid drugs can lead to serious side effects that sometimes resemble a person going through grief, such as anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and mood swings.

Contrarily, endorphins act similarly to help manage pain but have a less intense response. They’re naturally produced by the body and usually do not reach levels of saturation that require more of the activity to promote that same feeling of pleasure (60, 61).

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, speak with a healthcare professional, visit samsa. gov (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), or call their helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Summary

Opioids are drugs that attach to opioid receptors in the brain to promote feelings of pleasure and alleviate pain. Endorphins also act on opioid receptors, but they don’t have the same addictive properties and are naturally made by the body.

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain reliever and also promote pleasure. They’re produced during activities such as exercise, sex, laughter, dancing, and listening to music.

They have many health benefits, including reduced rates of depression and anxiety, improved mood, decreased pain and discomfort, and increased self-esteem.

While endorphins can be helpful for some people, they may not work for everyone. If you find that you’re having difficulty regulating your mood or managing pain, speak with your healthcare provider, who may recommend additional therapies and treatment.

That said, finding ways to naturally increase your endorphins can be a simple yet effective way to promote your health and well-being.

hormone functions and ways to increase in the human body

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Endorphins are “happiness hormones” from a group of peptide compounds produced by brain neurons. In 1975, endorphins were first isolated by scientists from extracts of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus of mammals. These substances are responsible for our mood, emotional background, reduce pain, give vivid emotions and unforgettable sensations, and even save lives in emergency situations. nine0005

What is endorphin - general information

Endorphins are natural neuropeptides of opioid nature. They are naturally produced in the brain from beta-lipotrophin produced by the pituitary gland, and to a lesser extent in other cerebral and other structures. Often the release of this hormone occurs in conjunction with the production of adrenaline. For example, it is produced after prolonged exercise to reduce muscle pain (source in English - NCBI). nine0005

Endorphins are delivered with blood to all organs and tissues.

As soon as such substances reach the nerve endings, they interact with receptors. As a result, nerve impulses enter "their" centers, where the effect of each endorphin is realized and spreads to certain zones.

The main functions of endorphins in the body

The main function of endorphins is to protect the body in a stressful situation. In case of pain, fear, acute stress, the amount of endorphins produced by brain neurons increases significantly. nine0015 The endorphins produced help the body to get out of stress without an adaptive breakdown, as well as to avoid the development of diseases provoked by it (source - Wikipedia).

It is important that with an adequate response of the body to an acute stressful situation, endorphins help to get out of such situations without the development of subsequent post-traumatic conditions and diseases.

Scientists have found that the hormones of joy are actively secreted by brain cells during combat and sports. Thanks to this hormone, injured fighters manage to ignore pain for some time, as well as athletes who continue to participate in the competition even after injury. nine0005

Even in ancient Rome, they knew that the wounds of victorious warriors heal faster than the wounds of soldiers who lost the battle.

In serious diseases with prolonged and severe pain syndrome, patients experience depletion of the brain system that generates endorphins. Another function of endorphins is to improve well-being, regenerate tissues, and preserve youth. Also, the hormone of joy is responsible for the stability of good mood and cheerfulness.

An important property of neuropeptides is the control over feelings and emotions, especially in a state of overexcitation.

Thanks to endorphins, people retain their common sense in unforeseen circumstances and immediately determine the course of further actions. During stress, adrenaline starts its action to the full extent, and endorphins neutralize its effects on organs and tissues, as if inhibiting excitation. Therefore, a person saves the necessary energy, which allows not to “fall out” of life after emotional disasters and maintain physical and mental health (source in English - Sports Medicine). nine0005

© VectorMine — depositphotos.com. 4 hormones of happiness

How and where endorphin is produced

In terms of composition and functional properties, endorphins are considered opiate-like substances. The hippocampus (limbic part of the brain) is responsible for the production of these substances, which determines the amount of endorphins produced depending on the situation.

In addition to the brain, the following are indirectly involved in the production of the "hormone of joy":

  • adrenal glands and pancreas; nine0063
  • stomach;
  • intestines;
  • dental pulp;
  • taste buds;
  • central nervous system.

The hormone endorphin affects the onset of euphoria, a feeling of joy and delight.

© ibreakstock — depositphotos.com

How to increase hormone levels

Endorphins are responsible for positive emotions: joy, pleasure, delight and are included in the group of substances that cause euphoria. There are several easy ways to increase the amount of endorphins in the body. nine0005

Physical activity

Swimming, running, badminton, tennis, playing volleyball, basketball, football or any other active sport not only makes you feel better, but also stimulates the release of endorphins in your blood.

Dancing, drawing, modeling, playing musical instruments prolong the effect of the splash.

Daily workouts, regular morning exercises or jogging are great ways to get a "portion" of the hormone of joy for the whole day.

Nutrition

Some foods also stimulate the production of endorphins. Include healthy foods in your diet that will help you not to keep your figure, but always be in good shape.

Table of products that increase the content of endorphins in the blood:

Product type

Description

Action

Vegetables Potato, beetroot, fresh cilantro, hot chili Increase hormone levels, relieve anxiety, gloomy thoughts, help in stressful situations
Fruit Bananas, avocados Stimulates the production of endorphins, accelerates the release from stress
Berries Strawberry Delicious treat and endorphin provocateur
Chocolate Cocoa, chocolate Increase the amount of the hormone in the blood, but it is not recommended to abuse sweets
Tea Natural antioxidant that increases blood levels of dopamine and endorphin

© yarunivphoto — depositphotos. com

Acupuncture and other alternative methods

In addition to sports and healthy foods, there are many more methods that stimulate the production of endorphin hormone by our body.

Acupuncture and massage

Acupuncture and massage relax muscles, fill the body with a pleasant feeling of warmth, increase the amount of dopamine and endorphin. nine0005

Music

Listening to your favorite music lifts your spirits and energizes you, evokes pleasant memories, stimulates the imagination due to the increased level of hormones in the blood. Playing musical instruments gives a similar effect.

Good quality sleep

A good 7-8 hour rest helps to recover, feel alert and fresh due to dopamine and endorphin produced by our brain during sleep.

Physical activity

An active walk, a hike in the mountains, any walk in nature is a source of new impressions and a hormone of joy.

Endorphins are stimulated by short runs or high intensity climbs on low, steep slopes.

Short motor activity includes sex. It also stimulates the production of endorphins in the pituitary gland.

Humor and laughter

Do you want to relieve the load of worries after a working day? End it by reading jokes, watching comedy shows or funny videos. nine0005

Positive thinking

Physicians and psychologists consider this method to be the best way to keep your hormonal balance at the level. Surround yourself with pleasant communication with interesting people, enjoy the little things (a good book, a delicious dinner, daily successes), pay less attention to small adversities.

Try to notice more positive than negative around you.

New positive experiences

Traveling to new places, excursions, doing activities that you have not done before, such as paragliding, ice skating, taking part in a photo shoot will bring new experiences to your life and trigger a surge of endorphins. nine0005

Falling in love

Persons who are in love feel surges of happiness hormones much more often than other people. The feeling of falling in love causes euphoria due to the development of a whole group of neurotransmitters, which includes endorphin.

Medications

This method is practiced only if the patient has the appropriate medical indication. Drugs are prescribed by a specialist - a neuropathologist or psychiatrist.

TES-therapy, based on electrical stimulation of the brain centers responsible for the production of endogenous opioid peptides, belongs to the category of physiotherapeutic methods for increasing endorphin. nine0005

The hardware effect is strictly dosed and is aimed not at hyperstimulation, but at normalizing the level of these substances.

What threatens low hormone levels

Endorphin production is affected by various life situations and problems.

The most acute of them:

  • loss of loved ones;
  • divorce proceedings, parting with a girl / boyfriend;
  • problems at work, unexpected dismissal;
  • diseases of relatives and own diseases; nine0063
  • stress due to moving, leaving on a long business trip.

In addition to stressful situations, the production of endorphins is blunted by the passion for sweets, chocolate, cocoa, alcohol, drugs.

Signs of lack of endorphins:

  • depressed mood;
  • fatigue;
  • depression and sadness;
  • procrastination, difficulty in solving tasks;
  • apathy, loss of interest in life and others; nine0063
  • aggression, irritability.

Deficiency of endorphin threatens with neurological diseases, aggravation of depression, impaired cognitive functions, decreased concentration of attention and level of vitality.

Conclusion

The role of endorphins in the body cannot be overestimated. They are not only responsible for mood, but also participate in the regulation of the internal organs and systems of our body. Endorphin means a lot for the immune system: you must have noticed that a cold goes unnoticed if you are in a good mood, and it is extremely painful if you are “loose”. nine0005

Take care of your emotional health, lead a healthy lifestyle. Control your emotions before they control you!

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Project expert. diagnostics, treatment, primary, secondary prevention of diseases of the kidneys, joints, cardiovascular system; differential diagnosis of diseases of various organs and systems; recommendations on dietary nutrition, physical activity, physiotherapy exercises, selection of an individual nutrition scheme. nine0005

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Hormones of happiness: what are endorphins and how to produce them

When the third piece of cake is eaten, almost all of Netflix has been watched, live broadcasts make you sick, and it seems that work has only increased, it’s time to figure out how to Today's limitations can cheer you up and beat stress.

Endorphins are responsible for resistance to stress in our body, they also give an analgesic effect and are involved in the regulation of excitation and inhibition. Sometimes they are also called hormones of joy. “Endorphins are a group of chemical compounds that are naturally produced in our body in the neurons of the brain,” says Leonid Arkadyevich Elkin, a surgeon and integral medicine doctor. - For example, in the first phase of stress, when the issue of life has not yet been resolved, a part of the endorphin system works, which activates the function of thinking. After resolving the issue of “life and death”, there comes a moment of inhibition, and the body goes into saving mode. Therefore, the feeling of fear or pain is dulled after unpleasant events. In the medical world, endorphins are often compared to opioid-class painkillers, only endorphins are safe.” nine0005

Why are endorphins so important? "They improve healing processes, accelerate regeneration, promote the formation of thinking - stimulate the formation of associations, fantasies," adds Elkin. Endorphins fight depression, reduce stress and anxiety, boost self-esteem, and aid weight loss. Thanks to endorphins, it is possible to reduce the feeling of pain during childbirth. It is endorphins that make us feel at our best after sex, a good workout or a delicious dinner, and when they are lacking, we want to lie on the couch and look at the ceiling. Impulsive behavior, chronic headaches, anxiety, addictions, and trouble sleeping are some of the few signs of a lack of endorphins. nine0005

“As a neurotransmitter, dopamine is responsible for the formation of motivation, feelings of pleasure, feelings of life and emotional reactions. The release of dopamine is facilitated by the achievement of goals, the feeling of love, tactile sensations, favorite food, rest, physical activity, explains Elkin. Dopamine does not always stimulate the production of positive emotions. First of all, it helps the body adapt in stressful situations - for example, dopamine is released during injuries and pain syndrome. The production of dopamine is inhibited by the intake of alcohol, narcotic drugs, the use of a large amount of fatty and sweet foods. So keep an eye on your diet and give preference to healthy food. There is one important nuance: some drugs that are used in cardiology and psychiatry are involved in the exchange of dopamine, so you should be careful about taking medications. nine0005

Serotonin improves memory, speeds up movement, lowers the pain threshold, ensures proper sleep, participates in reproductive function and controls libido, regulates the functioning of the pelvic organs in women. “The release of serotonin is facilitated by the amino acid tryptophan, glucose and magnesium.

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