Getting 'High' On Your Own Supply

The Crux
By Ben Thomas
Oct 20, 2015 12:58 AMNov 19, 2019 8:22 PM

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Earlier this month, researchers discovered that at least part of the euphoria that comes after a strenuous workout — runner's high — is due to endocannabinoids, the body’s self-produced counterparts to some of marijuana’s mood-enhancing chemicals. The finding overturned decades of conventional wisdom claiming that natural highs come from endorphins, the chemicals that became famous in the 1980s for their euphoric effects. While endorphins seem to help numb our muscles during a workout, their molecules are too large to cross the blood-brain barrier and trigger a “high” like endocannabinoids can. Although endocannabinoids may deserve more credit for rewarding your workout, media coverage around the discovery tended to blow the findings a bit out of proportion — giving endocannabinoids all the credit. The study authors' actual claim was that endocannabinoids in addition to endorphins may play a role in runner's high. Endocannabinoids, though, are far from the only intoxicating chemicals our bodies produce – and they don't work alone. The bewildering variety of highs we can give ourselves – and the ways they work together – reveal some intriguing truths about the responses we’ve evolved to soothe our pain and get the good vibes flowing. Here’s a quick look at the usual suspects.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.