Article Summary: Researchers at the University of Missouri have found new evidence that may lead to a possibility of alcoholics or drug addicts able to receive a "high" without partaking in the substances. The study was conducted by artificially injecting rats with dopamine, the chemical released during a "runner's high." Half of the rats injected were extremely active, while the other half were extremely lazy. The active rats became lazy while the lazy rats remained unchanged. This led the scientist to believe that the active rats voluntarily run mainly because of their addiction to the dopamine.
Correlation: This article is very important in understanding how exercise works, and how we might be able to cure substance additions. Several recovery programs already involve excessive amounts of exercise. However, be able to artificially inject the chemical might make it easier for the addicted to recover. It also explains why people become addicted to exercising. They may be doing it for the dopamine, rather than completely for the health. Therefore, an addiction to the chemical can lead to unhealthy exercise addictions.
Personal Reflection: This article is intriguing because I love to run and so understanding why I crave a good run occasionally is important. This is especially interesting because it could be underlying proof of an addictive personality. I claim that I love to run but it could actually just be that I love that feel good feeling I get from a successful run. This is also particularly intriguing because alcohol addictions run in my family. Evidence of a potential cure is very encouraging for the future!
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/10/151006192048.htm
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