Endogenous opioid neuropeptides and peptide hormones.
Produced by the central nervous system and the pituitary gland.
Endorphins are primarily made in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
The class of endorphins includes three compounds – α-endorphin, β-endorphin, and γ-endorphin – which preferentially bind to μ-opioid receptors.
The main function of endorphins is to inhibit the transmission of pain signals.
Endorphins are chemicals produced naturally by the nervous system to cope with pain or stress.
They work similarly to a class of drugs called opioids.
Called feel-good chemicals because they can act as a pain reliever and happiness booster.
They may also produce a feeling of euphoria very similar to that produced by other opioids.
The class of endorphins includes three endogenous opioid peptides.
α-Endorphin
β-Endorphin, cleaved from proopiomelanocortin
γ-Endorphin
Humans are capable of producing morphine, which is not a peptide.
Naturally produced in response to pain.
Production can also be triggered by various human activities.
Vigorous aerobic exercise can stimulate the release of β-endorphin, a potent μ-opioid receptor agonist, in the human brain.
Release of β-endorphin contributes to a phenomenon known as a runner’s high.
Laughter may also stimulate endorphin production.
They are suspected to play a role in depersonalization disorder,as the opioid antagonists naloxone and naltrexone have both been proven to be successful in treating depersonalization.
The level of endorphins in the human body varies from person to person, and people who have lower levels may be more likely to have depression or fibromyalgia.
Regular exercise has been found to help combat anxiety and depression due to the endorphins it releases.
Yoga and meditation known for their stress-relieving and relaxing effects may be partially due to an endorphin release.
Research suggests that the spicy components in hot peppers and similar foods may trigger a pain sensation in the mouth, which prompts an increase in endorphins.
It is suggested that eating dark chocolate could boost endorphin levels.
Studies suggest that laughing increases endorphins.
Social laughter releases endorphins in the brain.
Low endorphin levels have been linked to depression and headaches.
Low endorphin levels may negatively affect health.
Low endorphin levels may be associated with depression.
People with fibromyalgia may have lower than normal endorphin levels.
Increases in the body’s endorphins correlate with pain relief in people with fibromyalgia.
People with fibromyalgia may be advised to do certain activities to boost endorphins, such as exercise, connecting with others, and stress-relieving activities, such as yoga.
Research suggests that the same endorphin imbalance that contributes to depression is also present in people who have chronic headaches.