Happy Hormones

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Exercise is important as a regular activity for the obvious reasons of body use, flexibility, cardio vascular health and weight loss…..but what is the mechanism behind this weight loss…….and why does exercise beget more exercise!?
Only an hour of exercise is enough to help raise serotonin(S) levels …when serotonin levels drop you start to crave food high in carbs and sugar!

So what is Serotonin?

It’s a hormone and neurotransmitter found in the digestive tract(80%), blood and Brain(20%). It had to be produced by the brain as well as other cells as it cannot pass through the blood-brain barrier.

In blood it acts as a vasoconstrictor, helping blood around the body more effectively, And in the gut, it regulates gut movement.

Seratonins chief actions are: Inhibition of appetite, sex behavior (!).and suppresses pain perception.
lack of serotonin leads to aggressive behavior, irritability. impulsivity, disordered eating.sleep problems!

Research carried out at Bristol uni suggests its involved in sleep, memory, appetite, lowering temperature, mood, behavior, depression. cardio function, endocrine regulation, regulating aging, bone metabolism and wound healing!

Low levels of serotonin in animals has lead to loss of maternal instinct.

Its also been shown to be seasonal…so lower in winter months.

Mens and women’s systems in the brain are different..women seem to be more affected by anxiety and depression.

Endorphins released during exercise lower pain perception by triggering a morphine-like euphoria they can act as analgesic and sedative

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Regular exercise, therefore, can lower stress, boosts self-esteem, improves sleep, and wards off anxiety and depression. strengthens heart function, raises energy levels, builds bones and reduces body fat!
Exercise has been shown to be a good treatment for mild to moderate depression. Joining in group exercise is better for the support and boost from others positive feelings ….20- 30 mins 3 times a week is seen as recommended amount necessary.

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