Endorphins are morphine-like chemicals produced by the body that help diminish pain while triggering positive feelings.
Theyre sometimes referred to as the brains feel-good chemicals, and are the bodys natural painkillers.
Endorphin is a combination of the words endogeno (produced within the body) and morphine.
Endorphins help relieve pain and induce feelings of pleasure or euphoria.
Narcotic pain medications, including morphine, oxycodone, and codeine, work by mimicking natural endorphins.
Endorphins and Exercise
The body produces endorphins in response to intense physical exercise.
Research suggeststhat exercise helps to improve mood and may even aid in thetreatment of depression.
Exercise addiction may occur in people who exercise excessively.
She previously worked as an editor and staff writer at Environmental Health News.
