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Endorphins

Endorphins - The Feel-good Molecules

Endorphins are a class of neurotransmitters  produced by the body and used internally as a pain killer.

This class of compounds are similar in their action to opiates, attaching to some of the same receptors in the brain. They are a strong analgesic, and give a pervasive sense of happiness. They are proteins, and due to their many different types and their complexity, I cannot list them here. The release of endorphins lowers the blood pressure, a major indicator in heart disease, and has even been implicated in the fight against cancer.


Endorphins are best known to those who exercise a lot, and give rise to what is known as the 'runner's high'. Their release is caused by all pain, including that caused by chillies. Thus a dose of hot chillies will cause the release of these compounds, without any permanent harm.


Some people find the 'rush' from endorphins addictive, and may exercise excessively, have many tattoos or piercings, or even deliberately cut themselves. I think chillies are by far the safest, easiest, and tastiest way to get an endorphin response.