How Do Endorphins Work?

Most of us know the basics about endorphins. They are released during exercise and basically make us feel better, more energised, happier etc afterwards. But some people seem to get these positive benefits a lot more than others. So how do endorphins work exactly? Do you need to do any particular type of exercise or exercise in a certain way to make sure you release them?

What are endorphins?

They are tiny neurochemicals released by your body. They are produced by the central nervous system and the pituitary gland. Endorphins act on the opiate receptors in the brain and basically increase pleasure and reduce pain. Hence giving you an overall sense of happiness and well-being when they are released.

What can endorphins help with?

They have been shown to help alleviate depression. Which is a big part of the reason why anyone suffering from mental health issues or depression is encouraged to exercise more. Studies show they also play a vital role in reducing stress and anxiety. They make you feel more positive, optimistic and boost your self-esteem. Endorphins can also help with weight management. Obviously exercise burns calories, but more than that studies actually shown they help to regulate appetite.

Can I do anything to produce more of them?

We all naturally produce different levels of them, but you can do certain things to maximise your production of them.
1/ Most importantly, exercise regularly. It doesn’t seem to matter what type of exercise you actually do in terms of endorphin production.
2/Certain foods such as dark chocolate and spicy foods have been shown to increase endorphin production.
3/ Do things/hobbies that you enjoy and much as you can.
4/ Sniff vanilla or lavender. Certain aromas have been shown to lift your mood.
5/ Try taking ginseng. Has been shown to help with fatigue and stress.
6/ Laugh as much as you can. One study found children laugh an average on 300 times a day, adults only 5! So try to have a laugh whenever you can it will trigger release of endorphins.

Conclusion – How Do Endorphins Work?

Try doing as many of the things above as you can to boost your endorphin levels. Don’t worry if someone you know feels ‘amazing’ after exercise and you don’t. We all have different natural levels of endorphin production. Exercise is the most effective method of boosting it, but I guess I would say that!

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