Nicotine Addiction 101
ENDORPHINS AND NICOTINE
Endorphins are neurotransmitters found in the brain that have pain-relieving properties similar to morphine.
There are three major types of endorphins
Beta-endorphins, found primarily in the pituitary gland
Enkephalins and Dynorphin - both are distributed throughout the nervous system.
Endorphins interact with opiate receptor neurons to reduce the intensity of pain among individuals afflicted with chronic pain disorders, endorphins are often found in high numbers.
Many pain-killing drugs, such as morphine and codeine, act like endorphins and actually activate opiate receptors.
Besides behaving as a pain regulator, endorphins are also thought to be connected to physiological processes including euphoric feelings, appetite modulation, and the release of sex hormones.
Prolonged, continuous exercise contribute to an increased production and release of endorphins, resulting in a sense of euphoria that has been popularly labeled ‘runners high’.
There are three major types of endorphins
Beta-endorphins, found primarily in the pituitary gland
Enkephalins and Dynorphin - both are distributed throughout the nervous system.
Endorphins interact with opiate receptor neurons to reduce the intensity of pain among individuals afflicted with chronic pain disorders, endorphins are often found in high numbers.
Many pain-killing drugs, such as morphine and codeine, act like endorphins and actually activate opiate receptors.
Besides behaving as a pain regulator, endorphins are also thought to be connected to physiological processes including euphoric feelings, appetite modulation, and the release of sex hormones.
Prolonged, continuous exercise contribute to an increased production and release of endorphins, resulting in a sense of euphoria that has been popularly labeled ‘runners high’.