What are endorphins and why is it important?

What are endorphins? 

Endorphins are a type of hormone produced by the brain and nervous system. Opioid receptors are part of a system that controls pain and reward. By activating the opioid receptors, endorphins can temporarily affect aspects of both physical and mental health.

3d illustration of headache human, x-ray medical concept.

There are opioid receptors throughout the body in the gut, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and blood cells, which explains why the health effects of endorphins can be so widespread.

Why is it important?

1. Provide pain relief: By activating the opioid receptors, endorphins can have an analgesic, or pain-relieving, effect. Endorphins may reduce pain by binding to receptors in the spinal cord.
2. Encourage general happiness: These hormones can also promote an overall sense of well-being and happiness.
3. Reduce inflammation: Opioid receptors are located on many blood elements involved in the immune response and endorphins, by stimulating these receptors, can reduce inflammation. Opioid receptors are also located in many sites in the body where they also reduce the consequences of inflammation. Over time, chronic inflammation can increase your risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease. 
4. Trigger the production of dopamine: The production of endorphins can also trigger the production of dopamine, which is another hormone associated with pleasure.