Lynn Griffith – Many studies show that exercise is associated with a positive boost in mood and lower rates of depression.  During exercise, the body releases endorphins that interact with receptors in the brain and reduce perception of pain.  These endorphins trigger a positive feeling in the body that is similar to morphine.  This feeling is often identified as a “runner’s high.”(1)

Irisin is a hormone that is also linked to the positive benefits of exercise.  Irisin was first discovered by Harvard scientist, Bruce Spiegelman, in 2012.  Spiegelman found that this hormone was released from the muscle cells after endurance exercise. (2)

Exercise induced hormone, Irisin, is released from the muscle cells following endurance exercise

Irisin is capable of reprogramming fat cells to burn energy instead of storing it.  It increases the body’s metabolic rate and has anti-obesity effects.  When the levels of irisin rise, the hormone switches genes on that convert white fat into brown fat.  Brown fat has been found to burn off more calories, help people remain at a healthy weight, and reverse health conditions associated with obesity.(2) Continue reading →