MaceySenior Contributor
dopamine too
While nicotine is mainly associated with the harmful effects of smoking, it can also offer certain benefits. These include:
- Increased levels of alertness, euphoria and relaxation
- Improved concentration and memory — due to increased activity of the acetylcholine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters
- Reduced anxiety — due to increased levels of beta-endorphin, which reduces anxiety.
- Nicotine creates a temporary feeling of well-being and relaxation, and increases heart rate and the amount of oxygen the heart uses. As nicotine enters the body, it causes a surge of endorphins, which are chemicals that help to relieve stress and pain and improve mood.
- Nicotine also increases levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is part of the brain’s reward system and creates feelings of pleasure and reward.
Neither is nicotine intake dependant on unhealthy habits of smoking. It is available from pharmacies as an over the counter supplement. 👀