Why Do We Need Endorphins?

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers and mood boosters. They are naturally produced during pleasurable activities like exercise, sex, and laughing, as well as painful experiences, such as twisting your anklThough most people are familiar with having an “endorphin rush” after a fun activity, you may wonder what endorphins are and how they benefit your healthThis article dives deep into endorphins, including why we need them and tips on how to naturally increase
their levelsAaron Thomas/Stocksy UnitWhat are endorphins and what purpose do they servEndorphins, also known as endogenous opioids, are groups of protein chains called peptides. They’re mostly controlled and released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland (1Trusted Source, 2They’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 (1Trusted SourcInterestingly,
the term endorphin comes from the words “endogenous,” meaning from the body, and “morphine, an opiate pain relieveWhile various forendorphins exist, beta-endorphins are the most studied and known for their pain-relieving effects (1Trusted Source, 2Though they’re not fully understood, they’re thought to be involved
in how we perceive pain and pleasure (2For example, endorphins are released during painful experiences, such as when you sprain your ankltemporarily relieve pain and discomfort. They’re also released during pleasurable moments, such as eating chocolate, having sex, or exercising (2SUMMAEndorpneurotransmitters that are
released by the brain to alleviate pain and promote pleasure.What are the benefits of endorphiWhile research is ongoing, there are many benefits of endorphins (2):reduce pain and discomfoincrease pleasureduce stress, depression, and anxieattenuate inflammatiimprove mboost self-estemay support a healthy immune systmay support memory and cognitive functiThus, aiming to boost your endorphins can be a great way to support your overall well-being.

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