London - For a large part of the population, it hardly requires scientific proof.
But for the first time, experts have pinpointed exactly how a few drinks can make us feel good.
Drinking alcohol causes a rush of feel-good chemicals in the brain known as endorphins.
Previously scientists had only speculated about this effect based on results of animal studies.
Now experts at the University of California have for the first time observed it in humans. Using scanning technology, they mapped how endorphins surged in two regions of the brain, the nucleus accumbens and orbitofrontal cortex.
Research leader Jennifer Mitchell, assistant professor of neurology, said: “This is something that we’ve speculated about for 30 years.”
The team used PET imaging (positron emission tomography) to “light up” the effects on the brains of 13 heavy drinkers and 12 “control” volunteers. Drinking led to a release of endorphins in all those taking part.
The more endorphins in the nucleus accumbens, the greater the feelings of pleasure reported by each drinker. But as the levels in the orbitofrontal cortex rose, only the heavy drinkers felt more intoxicated.
Professor Mitchell said: “This indicates the brains of heavy or problem drinkers are changed in a way that makes them more likely to find alcohol pleasant, and may be a clue to how problem drinking develops.”
Separate research suggests that while moderate amounts of alcohol have the pleasurable effect, high doses may stimulate other systems in the brain leading to depression. - Daily Mail