Substances Made by the ANS That Influence Our Brain
Substances Made by the ANS That Influence Our Brain
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls many important functions in our body, like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. It also produces substances that affect our brain and emotions.
One of these substances is adrenaline, also known as epinephrine. When we feel stressed or scared, the ANS releases adrenaline. It makes our heart beat faster, our breathing quicker, and prepares us to react quickly — this is called the "fight or flight" response.
Another important substance is cortisol, known as the "stress hormone." When we experience long-term stress, our body produces more cortisol. Too much cortisol can make us feel anxious, tired, or even depressed.
On the other hand, the ANS also produces oxytocin, often called the "love hormone." It is released when we feel safe, loved, or when we bond with others. Oxytocin can reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness.
All these substances show how closely our body and mind are connected. Learning to manage stress and have positive social interactions can help keep these hormones balanced.
Exercise: Correct the Mistakes
Read the following sentences. Each one has a mistake. Find the mistake and write the correct sentence.
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The ANS controls only our heartbeat and nothing else.
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Adrenaline is released when we feel very relaxed.
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Cortisol helps us stay calm and stress-free.
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The "fight or flight" response makes our heart beat slower.
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Oxytocin is called the "stress hormone."
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The ANS has no effect on our emotions.
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Too much cortisol makes us feel happy and excited.
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Oxytocin increases feelings of fear and panic.
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The "love hormone" is released when we are angry.
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Balancing hormones has no impact on our mental health.
