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Smoking stimulates the flow of chemicals in the brain associated with a feeling of well-being

What do French, Italian, American and Brazilian films made in the 60s and 70s have in common? A good connoisseur of the subject can mention numerous differences, such as the fact that, at that time, American cinema was consolidating itself as a millionaire industry, while European and Brazilian cinemas produced more reflective and independent films. It is worth remembering that it was the time of the "nouvelle vague" in France and of Glauber Rocha in Brazil. But despite the different ideologies, one thing was common to all of them: it didn't matter if a film tilted to the left or to the right, there was always a cigarette in the middle.

As we know, many things besides advertising helped to popularize cigarettes. The feeling of freedom and transgression combined with a period of struggle and social engagement contributed to making cigarettes an instrument that expressed the rebelliousness characteristic of the time. Obviously, it wasn't just the charm that kept the cigarette on the market over the years - even with the wide spread of harmful health effects caused by it - but also its chemical composition, full of addictive elements that are in charge of "loyalty" the client.

The act of smoking constantly becomes a crutch for the user in moments of sadness, stress and anxiety, making the person feel a sense of relief after each drag. Although it is very common to hear people claim that addiction is psychological and therefore can be overcome by willpower, it is not wise to despise the power of chemistry.

According to a new study, smokers feel this sensation because smoking stimulates the flow of chemicals in the brain associated with "feel good." The affected brain system is the same one stimulated by morphine and heroin. The study is the first to show how smoking affects the brain's natural system with chemicals called endogenous opioids, which also help to end painful sensations and increase positive emotions. The system is also responsible for releasing endorphins, which produce a feeling of well-being.

Tests

To perform the test, participants were smoke-free for 12 hours before starting. From there, each person smoked two non-nicotine cigarettes and another two with nicotine, while their brains were monitored. At each step, they were asked how they were feeling.

"It appears that smokers have altered opioid flux all the time compared to non-smokers, and smoking a cigarette alters flux by 20 to 30 percent in brain regions important for emotions and desire," said David Scott, a graduate student at the University of Michigan. "This change in flow is related to changes in how smokers themselves reported feeling before and after smoking."

The study involved only six smokers, all men in their 20s and who typically smoke 14 cigarettes a day. Scott and his colleagues say that despite the small number of participants, they were surprised by the large effect on opioid levels. The survey will be expanded to include more participants.

Source: www.livescience.com