What Really Causes Runner’s High?
In an article titled “What Really Causes Runner’s High?” by Gretchen Reynolds in the New York Times Sunday Magazine, the common thought that endorphins cause the euphoric feeling after a good workout is put to the test and ultimately fails. This article explains that it is not endorphins that cause this high, but rather our endocannabinoid system. Reynolds continues to explain that if given the correct stimuli, our body can actually create its own cannabinoids. These give the same effect as if you were to smoke marijuana. This might be why we enjoy exercising so much. Although it is not conclusive that naturally produced cannabinoids are the sole reason for runner’s high, they definitely play a big role.
Although I do not find this information particularly important, it is quite fascinating knowing that our bodies actually created this endocannabinoid system. Working out feels great, but a lot of people don’t know the chemistry behind it. I found this article to be very informative and engaging. It also states that a good cannabinoid system is needed in order to have good cognitive abilities. Really interesting stuff.
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