Hearts maybe strengthened by ‘runner’s high’

It is well understood that endorphins and other morphine like substances known as opoids, which are released during exercise, make you feel good.

However, researchers at Iowa University have produced the first evidence linking natural opoids produced during exercise to the cardio-protective effects of exercise, and the fact they may therefore protect from heart attacks.

For further information:

http://ajpheart.physiology.org/cgi/content/abstract/00280.2007v1

Elaine Warburton

Genetics and Health correspondent www.geneticsandhealth.com