CrowdScience

Why does pain sometimes feel good?

Dec 13, 2024
Why do we seek out painful experiences like hot chilies and intense workouts? The podcast dives into this paradox, revealing how our brains rewire sensations of pain into pleasure. Discover the spicy world of extreme chilies and hear personal anecdotes from chili-eating champions. Learn why bittersweet flavors, like coffee, can be enjoyable, tapping into our evolutionary past. Finally, explore how exercise can lead to a euphoric 'runner's high,' turning discomfort into a rewarding experience.
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ANECDOTE

Chili Challenge

  • Anand Jagatia tries a "Hellboy" chili pepper with UK Chili Queen Shahina Waseem.
  • He experiences immediate tingling, a stabby pain, and a runny nose.
INSIGHT

Pain-Pleasure Overlap

  • Soo-An Lee's research shows brain regions responding to pain and pleasure overlap.
  • These regions, including the amygdala, process both sensations, suggesting they are intertwined.
INSIGHT

Reward After Pain

  • Pleasure after pain may be uniquely rewarding due to opioid receptor activation.
  • This could explain the appeal of painful experiences.
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