Hormones and neurotransmitters influence the function of other cells. Basically, they are indispensable messengers for the body to carry out its functions properly. Physical well-being is not your only goal, as positive emotions and feelings are also key to maintaining a good quality of life. The human brain has the ability to produce different hormones that are directly related to our health and so details Rosana Gogorza, a neurologist called by OSDE.
Endorphins originate mainly in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. They are a powerful natural stimulant that affects our mood, without causing adverse effects. “These natural chemicals act as analgesics and stimulate pleasure centers, creating satisfying situations that help eliminate discomfort,” says Gogorza and proposes to perform all kinds of activities that are comforting, to encourage their production and consequent positive results. .
To stimulate the production of endorphins it is recommended to laugh, exercise, relax, listen to music, read, meditate, meet goals, caress, kiss and hug because all displays of affection generate pleasure. These activities facilitate memory and attention, as well as the feeling of well-being and happiness. It is not a myth that “laughter is the best remedy,” as it has been shown to strengthen the immune system and decrease physical pain.
Serotonin is a brain neurotransmitter responsible for regulating gastrointestinal function. It occurs mostly in the gut and influences the control of movement, emotions, and cognitive functions. “Serotonin generates feelings of relaxation, satisfaction, increases concentration and self-esteem.” It depends directly on tryptophan, a key amino acid that can be found in foods such as eggs, pasta, rice, dairy, cereals, chicken and legumes.
This neurotransmitter also helps us enjoy restful sleep and activates the body’s internal clock. Excess of it can be dangerous, as a sudden spike (usually caused by some illegal drugs) can cause paranoia and negatively impact memory and judgment. Conversely, if the brain does not produce the required amount of serotonin, we may experience insomnia or lack of mood.
Another of these neurotransmitters present in various areas of the brain is dopamine, linked to the body’s motor function and the realization of different purposes. “Dopamine floods the synapse between neurons when something rewarding happens. It is responsible for this torrent of joy when a goal is reached or a task is successful,” adds the neurologist about this chemical that also promotes the state alertness, memory and helps the pancreas release the right amount of insulin after meals.
Dopamine is responsible for the coordination between the brain and the body when it comes to producing voluntary movements, which is why its deficiency is related to Parkinson’s disease. To stimulate secretion we can increase our consumption of tyrosine-rich foods such as chocolate, watermelon, almonds, meat, green tea, dairy, blueberries and soy.
Also called “love hormone”, oxytocin is produced in the cerebral hypothalamus and travels through the bloodstream, reaching different organs. “It is released in the face of pleasant moments in life, such as when we enjoyed a meeting with friends, and also in the face of simple physical contacts, establishing bonds of affection.” Oxytocin plays a role as a hormone and as a neurotransmitter: it triggers and sustains contractions in childbirth, dilates the cervix and plays a key role in breastfeeding, strengthening the mother-child bond.
The body needs this substance, which fully influences physical and social health, as it increases empathy and confidence, regulates increased heart rate, decreases blood pressure and stress, as well as the propensity for addictions. Embracing our loved ones, laughing, enjoying leisure, generating deep and lasting bonds, among other things, help maintain high oxytocin levels and therefore a better quality of life.
