Experts from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) have shared information about what happens in the body when one falls in love, in the context of the celebration of Valentine's Day on February 14. Ignacio Camacho Arroyo, a researcher at UNAM, explained that in all stages of romantic love, from infatuation to heartbreak, significant changes in brain activity are observed.
The process of falling in love influences the activation of several key brain structures, such as the Nucleus Accumbens related to motivation, the Hippocampus which strengthens memory and emotions, and the Hypothalamus which regulates sexual behavior. During the stage of infatuation, parts of the brain such as the amygdala and the frontal and prefrontal cortices are deactivated, which can affect daily activities by decreasing the perception of fear and reality critique.
Moreover, infatuation also has positive effects on health. The release of serotonin and dopamine during this process can generate happiness, motivation, and creativity. Physiologically, changes occur in adrenaline, noradrenaline, and acetylcholine, causing sensations such as "butterflies in the stomach." Although over time these reactions may decrease, they do not indicate the end of infatuation, but rather stability in the relationship.
On the other hand, there are negative aspects of infatuation, as in the case of heartbreak, where certain brain regions experience modifications that influence dopamine and serotonin levels. This can lead to loss of pleasure and reward, and in some cases trigger anxiety and depression, requiring medical, psychological, or psychiatric attention.
In conclusion, love involves significant changes in brain activity and body functioning, both positive and negative, which have been the subject of study by various scientific disciplines in the search to better understand this complex human experience.
