When we talk about feeling good, we often think of the "feel-good" chemicals in our brains, otherwise known as endorphins. But did you know that these powerful mood boosters are deeply connected to a larger system in your body—the endocrine system? In this article, we’ll explore what endorphins are, how they relate to the endocrine system, and ways you can support your body’s natural hormone balance.
What Are Endorphins?
Endorphins are often referred to as the body’s natural painkillers. They are neurochemicals produced by the brain and nervous system, particularly in response to stress, exercise, pain, or even laughter.1 Their primary job is to reduce pain and promote feelings of well-being and pleasure. This is why you feel an immediate mood lift after a good workout or when you experience that "runner’s high."
While endorphins mainly get credit for improving mood and reducing discomfort, they’re not acting alone. They’re part of a much larger network—the endocrine system—that regulates many of the body’s functions, including mood, energy levels, sleep, metabolism, and more.
The Connection Between Endorphins and the Endocrine System
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that produce and release hormones. These hormones control a variety of bodily functions, from metabolism to growth to mood regulation. The key players include the thyroid, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, and pancreas, among others.
You guessed it: endorphins are closely tied to this system. When your body releases endorphins, they interact with the endocrine system to help manage your stress levels and stabilize your mood. Endorphins also trigger the release of other key hormones like cortisol, dopamine, and serotonin, which work together to maintain balance in your body.
When the endocrine system is functioning well, the body’s natural production of endorphins can flourish, leading to better mental health, pain management, and overall well-being. But when something disrupts this system, it can throw everything off balance—including your mood and how your body handles stress.
What Disrupts the Endocrine System?
Unfortunately, modern life can wreak havoc on our endocrine systems. While we have a whole blog dedicated to outlining endocrine disruptors for more in-depth reading, here are some common ones:
Chronic Stress
Stress is one of the biggest culprits behind hormonal imbalances. When you’re constantly stressed, your body produces an excess amount of cortisol, a stress hormone.2 Elevated cortisol levels can block the production of other hormones and neurotransmitters like endorphins, making it harder for your body to naturally combat stress.
Poor Diet
Highly processed foods, excess sugar, and trans fats can disrupt the endocrine system by increasing inflammation and impairing the body’s ability to regulate hormones like insulin and cortisol. This can lead to issues like weight gain, insulin resistance, and mood instability.3
Environmental Toxins
Chemicals found in plastics, personal care products, and cleaning supplies can interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system. These substances, known as endocrine disruptors, mimic hormones and block their normal function, which can lead to imbalances.
Lack of Sleep
The body repairs and regenerates itself during sleep, including balancing hormones. Without sufficient rest, your endocrine system doesn’t have the time it needs to recalibrate, which can lead to increased stress, mood swings, and lower levels of endorphins.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Regular movement and exercise trigger the release of endorphins and help regulate the balance of hormones in your body. A lack of physical activity can lower the production of these mood-boosting chemicals and contribute to imbalances in hormones like insulin and cortisol.4
Common Endocrine Disruptors: What to Watch Out For
Many everyday products contain chemicals that disrupt the endocrine system by mimicking or blocking hormones, leading to imbalances.5 Here are some common disruptors and how to avoid them:
Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in plastics, canned goods, and even receipts, BPA mimics estrogen and is linked to reproductive issues and thyroid dysfunction.
How to avoid it: Choose BPA-free products and use glass or stainless steel containers.
Phthalates: Used in plastics and personal care items, phthalates can interfere with reproductive hormones.
How to avoid it: Look for "phthalate-free" labels and avoid products with synthetic fragrances.
Parabens: Preservatives in cosmetics and skincare, parabens mimic estrogen and can affect reproductive health.
How to avoid it: Use "paraben-free" products and opt for natural alternatives.
Triclosan: An antimicrobial in soaps and toothpaste, triclosan disrupts thyroid function and promotes antibiotic resistance.
How to avoid it: Skip "antibacterial" products and use regular soap.
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs): Found in non-stick cookware and water-resistant products, PFCs affect thyroid hormones and metabolism.
How to avoid it: Use stainless steel or cast iron cookware, and avoid food packaging with PFCs.
Flame Retardants (PBDEs): Used in furniture and electronics, PBDEs disrupt thyroid hormones and may affect neurological development.
How to avoid it: Opt for flame-retardant-free furniture and regularly clean household dust.
Taking these simple steps can help protect your endocrine system and promote hormonal balance:
- Choose natural or organic personal care products.
- Use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food and drinks.
- Avoid products labeled "antibacterial" or with added fragrances.
- Reduce plastic use, especially in food storage and preparation.
Supporting Your Endocrine System Naturally
Maintaining a healthy, well-functioning endocrine system is crucial for overall health and well-being. Here are some natural ways to support your endocrine system and encourage balanced hormone production:
Try FLO Endocrine Superfood
If you haven’t heard, FLO Endocrine Superfood Powder is packed with energy-boosting key ingredients that help the body manage stress and maintain hormone balance. Ingredients like L-theanine, DIM, and selenium target the endocrine system to support healthy hormone production, boost energy levels, and naturally elevate your mood—just like endorphins.
Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet
Whole, nutrient-rich foods can have a profound effect on your hormonal balance. Include plenty of healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts), which are essential for hormone production. Foods rich in antioxidants, like leafy greens and berries, also help reduce inflammation and protect the glands that regulate hormone production.
Exercise Regularly
Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to boost endorphins naturally. Exercise also helps regulate cortisol levels, supports insulin sensitivity, and improves sleep—all important factors in maintaining a balanced endocrine system.
Get Enough Sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep per night to allow your endocrine system the time it needs to repair and reset. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene—like creating a calming bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed—can help improve the quality of your sleep.
Manage Stress
Since stress is a major disruptor of the endocrine system, incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help lower cortisol levels and boost endorphin production. Taking time for self-care activities can also be a powerful way to reset and recalibrate.
Avoid Endocrine Disruptors
Reduce your exposure to toxins by using natural cleaning products, avoiding plastics (especially when storing food), and choosing personal care items free from harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates. These small changes can go a long way in protecting your hormone health.
Understanding the relationship between endorphins and the endocrine system is key to maintaining optimal health and wellness. By managing stress, eating a nutrient-rich diet, exercising regularly, and supporting your body with products like FLO Endocrine Superfood, you can naturally encourage balance in your hormones and experience the uplifting benefits of endorphins.
A note on sex and gender: Sex and gender exists on spectrums, and this article uses terms like “male” or “female” to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.
