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​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’
.
​​THE EFFECTS OF NICOTINE ADDICTION
Nicotine and Adrenaline
When a person inhales cigarette smoke, the nicotine in the smoke is rapidly absorbed into the blood and starts affecting the brain within 7 seconds. The result is the release of the hormone adrenaline, the "fight or flight" hormone. Physically, adrenaline will increase a person's heart rate, blood pressure and restrict flow to the heart muscle. The smoker will experience rapid, shallow breathing. Adrenaline also instructs the body to dump any excess glucose into the bloodstream.

Nicotine and Insulin
It is thought that nicotine inhibits the release of the hormone insulin, which is responsible for removing excess sugar from a person's blood. The result can be that the smoker is slightly hyperglycemic, meaning they have more sugar in their blood than usual. High blood sugar acts as an appetite suppressant, which may be why smokers think their cigarettes reduce hunger. In the long run though, nicotine in the bloodstream increases the "bad" LDL cholesterol, which is thought to clog and harden arteries. That in turn will step up the risk of heart attack and stroke.
 
Nicotine and Dopamine
Nicotine activates the same reward system as do other drugs of abuse such as cocaine or amphetamine, although to a lesser degree. Research has shown that nicotine increases the level of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is a chemical in the brain responsible for feelings of pleasure and well being. The acute effects of nicotine wear off within minutes, so people continue dosing themselves frequently throughout the day to maintain the pleasurable effects of nicotine and to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
​
Nicotine and Acetylcholine
The nicotine molecule is very similar in shape to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which affects many bodily functions, including breathing, heart rate, learning and memory. Acetylcholine in turn also affects other neurotransmitters that have influence over appetite, mood, and memory. When nicotine gets into the brain, it attaches to nerve cells in places where acetylcholine would, creating the same effects.

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​EST. 2008-2023
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#1​4-16775 YONGE ST,
NEWmarket

   located inside
the NEW Flow medical clinic
(Yonge and Mulock)

​905-699-5014

 Disclaimer: No medical treatment claims are made or implied. Results may vary.  NewLife Laser Therapy sessions are not meant to replace medical attention. Contraindications: pregnancy, cancer, photo-sensitive medications, specific pacemakers. 

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  • Home
    • What we do >
      • Our Approach
    • About
  • Our Services
    • Quit Smoking >
      • Nicotine Addiction 101 >
        • The Hidden Dangers of Smoking
    • Weight Loss
    • Stress and Anxiety Relief
  • Contact
  • Payment & Cancellation Policy
  • FAQ
  • Testimonials