• Skip to main content
  • Skip to header right navigation
  • Skip to site footer
Well.Org

Well.Org

Get Connected to the Global World

  • Wellness
  • Mindset
  • Nutrition
  • Fitness

To Your Brain, A Runner’s High Has Same Impact As Smoking Weed

Facebook0Tweet0Pin0LinkedIn0Email0
October 8, 2015 by Stefan Vintila

For a long time, scientists have thought that people feel a rush of euphoria after a long run because their bodies release endorphins, hormones that block pain and trigger the brain’s reward system. However, endorphins may have been taking too much credit for the “runner’s high”.

According to new research using lab mice as models, the euphoric exercise rush may be the product of the body’s own endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are internally produced cannabis, which contains cannabinoid molecules that are tiny enough to cross the blood-brain barrier and attach to receptors to create that runner’s high sensation.

To be sure that endocannabinoids are at play and not endorphins, the researchers with the Central Institute of Mental Health at the University of Heidelberg Medical School tested  their theory with a group of lab mice. They tested the mice’s anxiety levels and then allowed them to run. After running on their wheels for three miles, the mice appeared more chilled and less sensitive to pain.

Next the research team gave the mice two sets of drugs. One set blocked the effects of endorphins, whereas the other blocked endocannabinoids. When endorphins were blocked, the mice still showed all of the signs of experiencing the runner’s high. On the other hand, when endocannabinoids were blocked, the mice showed none of the signs of the post-workout euphoria. 

The findings aren’t definitive because the study used mice as models. However, it does bring us closer to answering a basic question about our biology. This research can also help develop new treatments for chronic pain or anxiety conditions. 

Facebook0Tweet0Pin0LinkedIn0Email0
Tags: Brain, Brain Chemistry, Drug, Drug Addiction, Endorphins, Exercise, health, Marijuana, research, Runner's High, Science, weed, wellness
Avatar

About Stefan Vintila

Related Articles

Steep Your Way to Stellar Gut Health

How to Keep Your Gut Thriving on Whole30

Whole30 and Your Gut Flora

Feed Your Gut the Greens It Needs Over the Holidays


Take Control of Your Health

Get the latest wellness, optimization and green living news in your inbox to keep in step and stay empowered.

Quick Links

  • About
  • Well.Org Blog
  • Contact

Blog

  • Health
  • Mindset
  • Nutrition
  • Fitness
  • Green Living
  • Medicine
  • Money

Legal

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

CONTACT US

810 Busse Highway
Park Ridge, IL 60068 
844-963-1767

[email protected]

Copyright © 2021 · Well Natural Health LLC · All Rights Reserved · Powered by Mai Theme

*Always consult a professional before making any significant changes to your health.

Share this ArticleLike this article? Email it to a friend!

Email sent!
x
Join Our Newsletter!
Join our newsletter and receive exclusive deals, content and wellness information!
Invalid email address
We promise not to spam you. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Thanks for subscribing!