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What Are Beta-Endorphins?

T. Carrier
T. Carrier

Beta-endorphins, or B-endorphins, are substances created by the pituitary gland. They specifically function as neurotransmitters, or conductors of messages between nerve cells. These substances are found around both the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

Since it contains 31 amino acids linked together, the b-endorphin is classified as a peptide neurotransmitter. It circulates around the brain, spinal cord, and secondary nerve systems in the body. Two glands, the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, have a particular prevalence of the substance. The pituitary gland is responsible for releasing this endorphin into the blood, where it then travels to the central nervous system in the first legs of its journey.

Beta-endorphins are substances created by the pituitary gland.
Beta-endorphins are substances created by the pituitary gland.

The neurotransmitter qualities of beta-endorphins are facilitated by the substance’s role as an agonist. In other words, the endorphin connects to a cell and kick-starts a response. B-endorphin targets portions of a cell called opiate receptors in particular. The substance can reach these receptors in bodily tissue via a process called diffusion.

Drug experiments facilitated the discovery of beta-endorphins by David Chung and C. H. Li. They eventually surmised that the substance produces a numbing effect. When an individual experiences trauma and subsequent pain, the endorphins trigger the opiate receptors, which in turn dulls the pain.

Yoga and other exercise spurs the pituitary gland to create more endorphins, the body's natural pain medication.
Yoga and other exercise spurs the pituitary gland to create more endorphins, the body's natural pain medication.

Endorphins indeed serve as the body’s natural pain-killers, as they are released during bouts of pain or other bodily stress. Sufferers of chronic pain, for example, have high levels of endorphins — particularly beta-endorphins — in the body. The neurotransmitter also often appears in pregnant women. In many ways, endorphins mimic the effects of pain medications like morphine, which also functions by binding to opiate receptors.

Endorphins may be released into an athlete's body, giving her pleasurable feelings during and after strenuous exercises.
Endorphins may be released into an athlete's body, giving her pleasurable feelings during and after strenuous exercises.

Along with other body chemicals, beta endorphins may be responsible for a physical effect known as runner's high. Long periods of strenuous physical activity like intense workouts or athletic events foster both breathing difficulties and sore muscles due to decreased glycogen supplies. When an individual has reached a pain threshold, the body releases several chemicals like B-endorphins. These chemicals in turn often create a higher tolerance for body stress or pain, allowing the individual to continue performing the strenuous task.

Beta-endorphins often appear in pregnant women.
Beta-endorphins often appear in pregnant women.

Due to their drug-like qualities, beta-endorphins can create a number of other effects in humans. In addition to pain response, they are also released during periods of intense excitement. Therefore, they can enhance mood and foster feelings of relaxation. For this reason, both traditional and alternative treatments like acupuncture seek to stimulate the release of b-endorphins. Some researchers even theorize that B-endorphin neurotransmitters can bolster the immune system and hinder cancer growth.

Discussion Comments

Sporkasia

I have spent years trying to explain to sedimentary friends why exercise is more than simply a good way to keep your muscles in good condition. As an avid runner, I can assure you that runner's high is a real condition, and it is a great remedy for stress and depression.

Hopefully, reading this article and obtaining a better understanding of the beta-endorphin will convince readers of the importance of exercise in achieving physical, mental and emotional health.

Animandel

There has been much research done on the affects of beta-endorphin release on disease in the body. Speaking from my personal experience working with patients and being around people fighting diseases, I think the role of endorphins in healing is highly underrated.

When patients are able to keep a positive outlook despite their physical conditions, their bodies are better able to fight disease. Since the endorphins are cable of adjusting mood, this is where we should focus more attention.

I'm not saying watching a funny film is going to cure your aunt's cancer, but laughter should be a part of the overall therapy. Happy, positive people respond better to medical treatments, in general.

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    • Beta-endorphins are substances created by the pituitary gland.
      By: 7activestudio
      Beta-endorphins are substances created by the pituitary gland.
    • Yoga and other exercise spurs the pituitary gland to create more endorphins, the body's natural pain medication.
      By: Ana Blazic Pavlovic
      Yoga and other exercise spurs the pituitary gland to create more endorphins, the body's natural pain medication.
    • Endorphins may be released into an athlete's body, giving her pleasurable feelings during and after strenuous exercises.
      By: mocker_bat
      Endorphins may be released into an athlete's body, giving her pleasurable feelings during and after strenuous exercises.
    • Beta-endorphins often appear in pregnant women.
      By: Alena Ozerova
      Beta-endorphins often appear in pregnant women.
    • Beta-endorphins can enhance a person's mood and create feelings of relaxation.
      By: rohappy
      Beta-endorphins can enhance a person's mood and create feelings of relaxation.
    • Acupuncture attempts to stimulate the release of beta-endorphins.
      By: www.doglikehorse.com
      Acupuncture attempts to stimulate the release of beta-endorphins.
    • B-endorphins circulate around the spinal cord.
      By: dimdimich
      B-endorphins circulate around the spinal cord.