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The Hidden Happiness Factor in the Brain: Do You Know How Endorphins Improve Your Mood?
Endorphins, known as "nature's painkillers", are important chemicals secreted by our brain. Not only do they relieve pain, they also promote feelings of happiness and well-being. Therefore, endorphins not only have a wide range of applications in medicine, but also directly affect our emotions and mental health.
Endorphins are endogenous polypeptides that are mainly secreted in the pituitary gland. They can effectively block pain perception and increase happiness.
The Discovery and History of Endorphins
The history of endorphins dates back to 1973, when University of Albertine researchers John Hughes and Hans Kosterlitz first discovered the chemicals. They isolated "enphalin" from pig brains and later discovered that these substances had effects on pain similar to morphine, which triggered a wave of research in the scientific community on non-addictive analgesics.
Studies have shown that endorphins are secreted significantly more during exercise or orgasm, and are a source of the pleasure often experienced by users.
Types and structures of endorphins
There are three main types of endorphins: alpha-endorphin, beta-endorphin, and gamma-endorphin, all of which are derived from the same precursor protein and differ in chemical structure. β-endorphin is particularly valued by researchers, and its analgesic effect has even been proven to be more powerful than morphine.
Synthesis and Regulation of Endorphins
Endorphins are synthesized primarily in the pituitary gland and are released when the body is under stress or pain. In addition, norepinephrine has also been shown to increase the secretion of endorphins in inflamed tissues.
Electroacupuncture stimulation can promote the release of endorphins by activating the sympathetic nerves, thereby achieving an analgesic effect.
Mechanism of action of endorphins
Endorphins inhibit the transmission of pain signals mainly by binding to μ-receptors. In the central nervous system, the release of endorphins can block the release of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and enhance the secretion of dopamine, which is associated with reward learning.
The impact of endorphins on mood
Many studies have shown that meditation, exercise, and even laughter can trigger the release of endorphins, which can elevate mood and even improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. For example, the release of beta-endorphins during high-intensity aerobic exercise is thought to be one of the causes of the "runner's high." This pleasure is not just a feeling of enjoyment after exercise, it may also be a potential factor in exercise addiction.
ConclusionThe production of endorphins may be directly linked to the positive effects of exercise on mental health, making people feel happier after exercise.
Endorphins are undoubtedly powerful natural chemicals that play a vital role in pain management and mood regulation. As we learn more about endorphins, we may be able to better understand how they affect our daily lives and mental health, and help more people struggling with pain or depression. Do you also want to explore how to increase endorphin levels and improve your mood through exercise and a healthy lifestyle?
