Endorphins are neurotransmitters that stimulate neurons involved in
reducing the intensity of pain.
Endorphins are produced in the hypothalamus and the amount will
increase in response to:
• physical and emotional stress
• severe injury,
• lengthy periods of vigorous exercise
• certain foodstuffs, such as chocolate
Increased levels of endorphins are also linked to the feelings of pleasure obtained from activities such as eating, sex and prolonged exercise.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter which induces the feeling of pleasure and reinforces particular behaviour by activating the reward pathway in the brain.
The reward pathway involves neurons which secrete or respond to dopamine.
The reward pathway is activated when an individual engages in a behaviour that is beneficial to them, e.g. eating when hungry.
