Which hormone is typically referred to as a 'feel-good' hormone released during physical activity?

Serotonin is often referred to as a "feel-good" hormone due to its significant role in regulating mood, anxiety, and overall feelings of well-being. During physical activity, the body releases serotonin, which can enhance mood and promote feelings of happiness and pleasure. This is particularly relevant during exercise because physical activity has been shown to increase the release of serotonin, contributing to the "runner's high" or the post-exercise elevation in mood that many individuals report.

Cortisol is known as a stress hormone and is released in response to stress, but it does not produce the same positive feelings associated with serotonin. Adrenaline is released during the fight-or-flight response and is more associated with increased heart rate and energy, rather than mood elevation. Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," plays a role in social bonding and emotional connections but is not primarily linked to the feelings of well-being typically associated with exercise. Thus, serotonin stands out as the hormone most closely associated with positive mood enhancements during physical activity.