Our bodies suppress and release a wide variety of chemicals when we exercise. These chemicals all have different purposes for what they do within our bodies. Working out triggers chemicals that help energize us, suppress anxiety, reduce pain, increase happiness, and so much more. Let’s learn about what chemicals your body releases when you work out and why they can enhance your life!
Endorphins
Endorphins are a group of peptides that are produced from your central nervous system and the pituitary gland in your brain. The pituitary gland’s main purpose is to release hormones that help regulate your body’s functions. The endorphins attach to your brain’s opiate receptors, which causes a chemical reaction that brings you pain relief, a sense of pleasure, and wellbeing. The hormone got its name from the phrase “endogenous morphine”. Endogenous because endorphins are created within the body, and morphine because they mimic the pain-killer effects of morphine. Endorphins are released in response to pain or stress within the body. When you work out, you’re putting stress on your body, which causes endorphins to release. That’s why during or after your workouts you have a sort of “workout high”. The workouts that are most effective at releasing endorphins are high-impact workouts such as running or HIIT workouts. If you want to try your hand at a 10 min high-intensity interval workout, I have one made just for you!
Serotonin
Serotonin is a chemical that nerve cells in your spinal cord and brain produce. It’s created from the essential amino acid called tryptophan. You can get tryptophan naturally from eating certain high protein foods such as turkey and salmon. These foods contain a lot of other amino acids though and make it a bit more difficult to make it to your brain. Exercise is shown to increase tryptophan, which in turn creates serotonin. Exercise releases tryptophan into the bloodstream with a lower volume of other amino acids, making it easier for the tryptophan to reach your brain. Serotonin is most well-known as being the “happy chemical”. It affects your mood, digestion, body temperature, and behavior. Having a low level of serotonin is often linked to depression. Aerobic exercises are shown to release a higher amount of serotonin in the body. These exercises can include walking, biking, running, swimming, and so much more. Performing 30 minutes of one of these exercises is shown to be the most effective in increasing serotonin. Give yourself a little boost of joy and go for a walk or run today!
Adrenaline
Adrenaline is a hormone that’s released by your adrenal glands that’s also known as epinephrine. It’s the hormone that kicks in and gives you the fight or flight response. It is known to kick in when people do extreme sports like skydiving. It kicks in when your body is under stress and needs help regulating certain bodily functions. Your body senses that it’s under stress and gives you a heightened sense of alertness and prepares your body for exertion. When you exercise, your body is put under stress and adrenaline is released to allow more oxygen and better blood flow to your muscles. It’s quite amazing what our bodies are capable of, so don’t take it for granted. Get out there, exercise, and feel the chemical reactions in your body!
