Endorphins - are chemicals produced by our brain that have an analgesic and emotionally stimulating effect. Their effect is similar to that of morphine and other opiates.
Scientific experiments aimed at studying endorphin are begun in 1970, when studies of the effects of certain exogenous opioids led to the discovery of specific receptors in the central nervous system. It was then that scientists came up with the assumption that the human brain itself is able to synthesize«endogenous morphine», ((it meant nothing more than endorphin). Four classes of endorphins are currently known:«alpha», «beta», «gamma» and«delta».
The effect of endorphins
The effect of endorphins on our physical condition is enormous. They participate in:
- regulation of the menstrual cycle;
- feeling of satisfaction after sexual contact;
- secretion of such hormones as adrenocorticotropic hormone, growth hormone, prolactin, cortisol (the hormone of death or stress), catecholamines (adrenaline, norepinephrine, dopamine);
- control of appetite;
- thermoregulation;
- regulation of sleep
An increase in plasma concentration of these substances occurs during analgesic therapy, such as acupuncture, electrical stimulation, sports massage. The participation of endorphins in nervous activity is deeply studied, however, their role in some respects is still not fully understood.
The most fascinating and interesting phenomenon of endorphins is their ability to regulate mood. During stressful situations, the body tries to protect itself by producing endorphins, which, on the one hand, help to better tolerate pain, and on the other, have a positive effect on mood. Consequently, endorphins can give us pleasure, satisfaction and happiness, helping to resist stress better.
The interaction of endorphins with other hormones is the basis of many interrelated aspects of the psychological and sexual spheres of human being. When studying plasma concentrations of these substances in certain situations (betrayal, motherhood, love, sex, etc.) it was found that there is a strong correlation between these situations and the amount of endorphins and other substances in the blood.
The interaction of endorphins with other hormones is the basis of many interrelated aspects of the psychological and sexual spheres of human being. When studying plasma concentrations of these substances in certain situations (betrayal, motherhood, love, sex, etc.) it was found that there is a strong correlation between these situations and the amount of endorphins and other substances in the blood.
Endorphins and exercises
Endorphins are released under special circumstances in which physical activity plays a special role. The synthesis of endogenous opioids, such as beta-endorphin, increases with physical exertion. Although the sensation of this increase is a subjective feeling, however, analyzes confirm that the average concentrations of these substances increase by 500%. This perfectly explains the undeniable feeling of euphoria and well-being that occurs after the practice of a little physical activity (do not talk about unloading wagons).
Reducing anxiety, stress, anger, and appetite control are excellent properties of endorphins, which, among other things, also have a powerful analgesic effect. This last point is probably the explanation for the increased tolerance to long-term fatigue. And it becomes clear why there are so many sports whose followers would prefer torture over skipping a workout. This conclusion may seem a little reckless, but it certainly has a scientific basis in the increased sensitivity to endorphins that is observed in trained people. Conclusion: we went to training - and the mood will rise. This is a scientific fact!
