The lacrimal gland is capable of producing approximately 500 mL of tears in a year. These, formed by water, mucus, lipids, proteins, magnesium, potassium, antibacterial enzymes, among others; they have their composition slightly altered when they are secreted in moments of crying, presenting themselves, for example, rich in manganese.
Our species is the only one in the animal kingdom capable of crying, and this event is directly related to our instinct for defense and communication – just remember the baby's cry, indicating that something won't good. Crying can express a range of feelings, including sadness, physical pain, indignation, insecurity, fear - or even happiness - by externalizing them.
Approximately 75% of men and 85% of women feel better after crying: and this is no accident. In certain situations, our brain produces certain substances, such as prolactin, which activate the action of the lacrimal glands. This one, whose concentrations increase in times of stress, reduces its amount again when we start to cry; just like adrenaline. This factor, together with the release of substances such as leucine-enkephalin, norepinephrine and serotonin, provides us with an anesthetic and calm feeling, relieving anguish and releasing tension.
Repressing oneself in adverse moments can make the individual, in the long run, develop depression; or even psychosomatic illnesses. High blood pressure, ulcers, and gastritis are some symptoms that can arise in this way. In addition, children who are brought up to suppress crying are much more likely to develop emotional inhibition problems in the future. However, be aware: individuals in this age group tend to use crying, too, as a blackmail tool.
Curiosity:
In addition to the cultural factor, it is believed that men cry less than women because they have 50% prolactin more than them, since this same hormone acts on the mammary glands for the production of milk maternal.
By Mariana Araguaia
Graduated in Biology
Brazil School Team
Healthy Tips -Health and wellness -Brazil School
Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/saude/chorar-faz-bem-saude.htm
