what are endorphins?

Question

how are they released and what happens when the are?

Answer 1

Endorphins are neurotransmitters found in the brain that have pain-relieving properties similar to morphine.

There are three major types of endorphins: beta endorpins, found primarily in the pituitary gland; enkephalins and dynorphin, both 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 painkilling 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 contributes to an increased production and release of endorphins, resulting in a sense of euphoria that has been popularly labeled "runner's high."

Answer 2

Endorphins are a substance that your body produces when you do things such as exercise. I don't know the exact chemical makeup of endorphins but it probably is a hormone. That is just a guess. When your body releases endorphins you mood is elevated. It makes you feel a lot happier. It works much better for people that are depressed instead of taking pills that can have a lot of side effects. (Good question)

Answer 3

Endorphins are release from the brain.It's a kind of 'feel good' feeling.I love running cos when endorphin is release at certain time,i feel like floating in the air rather than running.I love the feeling and it's natural.Your body release it whenever you eat chocolate too.

Answer 4

Endorphins (or more correctly Endomorphines) are endogenous opioid biochemical compounds. They are peptides produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus in vertebrates, and they resemble the opiates in their abilities to produce analgesia and a sense of well-being. In other words, they might work as "natural pain killers." Using drugs may increase the effects of the endorphins.

The term "endorphin" implies a pharmacological activity (analogous to the activity of the corticosteroid category of biochemicals) as opposed to a specific chemical formulation.
A good way to raise the endorphins is to excersise. They help you keep a healthy attitude and work against depression.

Answer 5

those are chemicals your brain produces like when you hit a grand slam home run - or score the winning run for the game - maybe get the ONLY perfect score on that test!

and you experience a "high" that is so natural

unfortunately, there are some drugs that also release endorphins, but when you go up - you fall down lower
and the more you use drugs you cycle - and keep going lower
until you are taking drugs just to feel normal -

don't do drugs -

but do get that perfect score = good luck

Answer 6

Endorphins are hormones in your body that "kick in" when you are injured or hurt. These are the body's natural pain-killers. Although they are nice to have and all, most people need more advanced medical attention and presciption medications for pain.