Every wonder how a habit is formed? Just swallow a spoonful of Nutella. This is a popular hazelnut spread with an intense chocolate flavor. The instant that gooey goodness hits your taste buds, the brain goes on high alert. A blast of dopamine is released, and your body can literally feel tingly all over. Indulging in certain behaviors or ingesting certain compounds will always trigger the dopamine release. It feels great, and you’re eager to do it again. And so the habit begins.
Many habits can provide that release without causing problems. Exercise and intimacy are two perfect examples. On the other hand, seeking out a dopamine release through drugs and alcohol is the very definition of bad habit. That is because of the debilitating effect those compounds can have on your body over prolonged use. The “high” might be great but coming down from that high is when the problem starts. Your body is now craving that substance and what was once a random habit quickly becomes an addiction. That is where the trouble really begins.
The following infographic from JourneyPure at the River explains how these bad habits can take hold and the impact it has on the user’s body and brain functions.
David Wallace is a search & social media marketer who lives in Ahwatukee Arizona with his lovely wife. Interests & hobbies include all things Disney, roller coasters, musicianship and Christianity.
