Physiological and psychological factors of exercise addiction

Physiological factors

Scientific research has discovered many of the underlying and physiological reasons for development of this disorder in some individuals. First of all, there are changes in our brain that take place whilst one is exercising. The brain releases certain mood modulating substances, such as beta-endorphin. This is responsible for euphoria that is resultant of exercise. Another substance that is responsible for psychological sports is serotonin (this neurotransmitter is also an instigator in bulimia). It is also responsible for many mechanisms such as mood elevations, anxiety and sleep control scientists say it is released during exercise and may have the same effect as Prozac in some people.

Psychological factors

There are psychological factors that cause mood improvements in people who exercise. Specialists say that being distracted from our daily activities while exercising is a form of escapism and allows us to avoid difficult emotions. It also helps us to be more satisfied with our bodies and our lives in general (especially if body image is the focal point in an individual’s life). A most people can agree, we feel emotionally happier when our bodies are firmer, stronger and healthier and we also need not worry about our weight as much if we live an active life. It is dangerous if individuals take it to an extreme......as with anything; everything is good in MODERATION, including exercise.

It is extremely hard to differentiate between a healthy exercise and an addiction. Physical activity is looked upon in a positive manner socially unlike eating disorders or compulsive eating. Therefore people who do sports are an example to many of us. However, when physical exertion becomes the only purpose in life and other spheres of life are sacrificed because of it, exercise is probably an addiction. An addicted person forgets about anything else in the world except for sports, just like with anorexia for example an individual will not think of anything other than calories. Individuals with exercise addiction experiences difficulties with relationships, has problems at work and family because he/she is concerned with their daily dose of exercise.

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