A meta-analysis found that acute exercise consistently increases both major endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-AG), which may help explain the mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects of physical activity.
Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the science behind exercise and mood.
74.4% of samples showed increased anandamide after exercise
What the researchers found
The meta-analysis of 10 studies showed consistent increases in both anandamide (AEA) and 2-AG following acute exercise across different exercise types (running, cycling), species (humans, mice), and health conditions. 74.4% of all samples measuring anandamide showed significant increases after exercise.
Why it matters
The "runner's high" has traditionally been attributed to endorphins, but this research suggests the endocannabinoid system plays a major role in exercise-induced mood elevation and pain relief.
The numbers in context
33 articles in systematic review, 10 in meta-analysis. 74.4% of samples showed significant anandamide increases after acute exercise. Effects found across running, cycling, humans, and mice.
How the study worked
Systematic review of 33 articles (57 samples) from the MEDLINE database, with meta-analysis of 10 studies examining circulating endocannabinoid levels before and after exercise.
What this study cannot tell us
Substantial heterogeneity in effect magnitude across studies. Effects of chronic exercise were inconsistent. Timing of measurement, exercise intensity, and fasting state may influence results.
How to read the evidence
First meta-analysis on this topic with consistent findings across species and exercise types, though substantial heterogeneity in effect sizes.
When this study was published
Published in 2022.
The bigger picture
Exercise-induced endocannabinoid release could have therapeutic implications for stress-related conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD, offering a natural way to boost the same system targeted by cannabis.
Questions still open
- What exercise intensity and duration optimally boosts endocannabinoids? Could exercise-induced endocannabinoid increases be harnessed as adjunct therapy for psychiatric conditions?
Common questions
Is the "runner's high" caused by endocannabinoids?
Does regular exercise keep endocannabinoid levels elevated?
Read the original research
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Exercise on the Endocannabinoid System.
Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 7(4), 388-408
Citation
Desai, Shreya; Borg, Breanna; Cuttler, Carrie; Crombie, Kevin M; Rabinak, Christine A; Hill, Matthew N; Marusak, Hilary A. (2022). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Exercise on the Endocannabinoid System.. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 7(4), 388-408. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0113
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