How Do Endorphins Help the Body Get Rid of Fat?
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Endorphins
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Endorphins are a group of 10 separate neurotransmitters that activate opiate receptors in the body. Scientists theorize that when the body encounters stress, these neurotransmitters are released. The main purpose of endorphins appears to be to fight severe pain by causing an analgesic effect. This also seems to have the added benefit of increasing a person's good mood. Endorphins cause a feeling similar to using artificial opiods, but unlike opiods, endorphins cause no addictive effects in the body. The neurotransmitters are never in contact with the receptors long enough to cause addiction, as they're broken down almost instantly.
Exercise
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Endorphins have been linked to physical activity and exercise. The so-called "runner's high" is created by the endorphins that are released into the body during exercising. With all of the breaking down and rebuilding of muscle tissue as well as all of the stress put on the joints by exercise, it's no surprise that the body would need natural painkillers when someone is exercising. The side benefit is that exercise can and does improve a person's mood, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and encourage the body to burn more fat.
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Healthy Side Effects
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Endorphins assist people in losing weight. The release of endorphins is an appetite suppressant, which means that those who exercise will eat less than they normally would. Additionally, the analgesic effect of the endorphins on the body means that people who are exercising won't feel as much pain. When combined with the mood-lifting effects that endorphins also create, the analgesic effect encourages those who are exercising to do it more frequently and for longer periods in order to achieve this pleasant effect. Though not directly involved in the process of burning fat and energy, endorphins contribute a lot to a person's efforts to get and stay in shape.
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