Top 5 Dopamine Boosters – Supplements, Foods & Natural Methods

Dopamine boosters include dietary supplements, medicines or foods that can increase the synthesis or release of dopamine in the brain or that increase the expression or activation of dopaminergic receptors.

Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter involved in different neurological functions ranging from attentional control, reward pathways, facilitating movement to the regulation of the mood.

When dopamine levels are lower than they should be, people may experience bothersome symptoms that affect their health and quality of life. Low energy levels, poor libido, a lack of enjoyment, poor motivation or focus can all be signs of insufficient dopamine activity,

To improve mood balance, concentration and mental drive, individuals suffering from low dopamine may use various strategies to increase the amount of this neurotransmitter in their brain, including lifestyle changes, supplements and prescription medications.

While some of these methods are unlikely to cause problems, others may not be safe for everyone. Below is some information about the importance of this brain messenger, the symptoms of low dopamine and the various dopamine boosters people may utilize.

Dopamine Boosters

Mood Supplements

Mood

Focus

Motivation

How It Works:

• Supports energy & motivation
• Promotes focus & mental clarity
• Improves mood & stress response

Dosage:

Varies depending on supplement

Safety:

Varies depending on supplement

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The Importance of Dopamine

Dopamine plays a role in a variety of functions occurring in both the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Effects of dopamine in the body include the inhibition of norepinephrine, vasodilation, inhibition of insulin production, reduction of gastrointestinal motility, inhibition of lymphocyte activity and recognition of pleasure.

Dopamine is also responsible for several key reward pathways in the brain. It is critical for executive function, which encompasses what we think of as goal-directed behavior.

This includes activities such as planning, managing time, being able to control attention, delaying gratification, short-term working memory, controlling inhibitions and modulating your behavior.

When the amount of dopamine in the brain are not in balance individuals may experience a range of symptoms. Low levels can result in depression, fatigue, feelings of anhedonia (a lack of pleasure), lacking ambition and more.

High dopamine is also problematic and can contribute to mania, hyperactivity, inexplicable feelings of pleasure, excessive libido, insomnia, paranoia, agitation, anxiety, and excessive pleasure-seeking behavior.

It is important to keep levels of this neurotransmitter in balance. Using strategies to elevate dopamine may not always be the right decision for your health needs.

If you are investigating the use of dopamine boosters to address a specific health concern that you have, it is recommended to consult with a doctor to determine what the right approach is for you.

Things that Deplete Dopamine

Low levels of dopamine may develop for several different reasons. Some of the most common causes of low levels can include:

• Use of drugs. – The use of alcohol, cocaine and other drugs may deplete dopamine levels over time. Some pharmaceuticals like Adderall XR work by causing neurons to release their stored dopamine, which can take time to replenish.
• Medical conditions. – Certain medical conditions may cause low levels to develop. These conditions include Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism and hypothyroidism.
• Poor diet. – Eating an unhealthy diet deficient in the building blocks of this neurochemical may decrease the amount of this neurotransmitter in your body. Vegetarians may be at risk of being deficient in some of the amino acids that are precursors.
• Obesity. – Some studies have shown that being overweight or obese can cause dopamine imbalances.
• Stress. – The results of research studies indicate that high stress levels may deplete dopamine.

For some people, low dopamine may be related to a combination of the causes above. In some cases, simply addressing the cause of low levels may improve symptoms. However, other people may need to be more proactive to boost dopamine levels.

How to Boost Dopamine Naturally

People dealing with dopamine deficiency often seek to naturally raise levels before investigatingmedical treatment. Some natural remedies for low dopamine that are purported to be effective include:

1. Participating in Enjoyable Activities

In some cases, participating in enjoyable activities may increase dopamine levels by stimulating its release. Examples of enjoyable activities that may work for this purpose include creating art, listening to music or spending time in nature.

2. Physical Exercise

Studies have shown that physical exercise may boost the synthesis and release of this feel-good chemical. Thus, engaging in physical exercise on a regular basis may boost dopamine levels naturally for some people.

3. Meditation

According to the results of some research studies, meditation may boost dopamine levels in the brain. During meditation, individuals actively concentrate on reaching an altered, more relaxed mental state.

4. Eating a Healthier Diet

The body uses the amino acid tyrosine to synthesize dopamine. If the body doesn’t have enough of this amino acid, levels may be lower than normal.

Eating foods that are high in tyrosine, such as wheat germ, oatmeal, lima beans, watermelon, pumpkin seeds, fava beans, coffee, chocolate, apples, almonds and animal products, may address this cause of low dopamine.

5. Taking Dopamine Boosting Supplements

Certain dietary supplements may also raise dopamine levels more naturally. Two supplements that may be used for this purpose include Mucuna Pruriens and L-tyrosine.

Mucuna Pruriens, which is also known as velvet bean or cowhage, contains levodopa. Because levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, taking this supplement has been shown to raise levels of this neurotransmitter in the brain.

This supplement is rated Possibly Safe by the NMCD when used properly, but it may cause adverse effects in some individuals. Side effects are typically gastrointestinal in nature and may be exacerbated by using high dosages or taking this product for long periods of time.

L-tyrosine is an amino acid that functions as a precursor for this neurotransmitter. If you do not get enough tyrosine naturally in your diet, using this compound as a supplement may increase the available stores of dopamine in the bran.

Some people prefer L-tyrosine to Mucuna extract because it more gradually increases dopamine synthesis in the brain. L-tyrosine is rated Likely Safe when used appropriately. However, as with Mucuna pruriens, side effects may occur.

Although both of these supplements are generally well tolerated, you should always consult a doctor before beginning any new supplement or medication. If you have been treated for depression or other mood disorders or are currently taking prescription drugs, it is important to check with a doctor before using any new supplement.

Medical Treatments for Low Dopamine

People who don’t benefit from natural dopamine boosters may seek medical treatment for their condition. Doctors can prescribe certain medications to increase dopamine levels, including buproprion and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

However, these drugs may cause side effects, and they are not suitable for everyone. Before using any prescription medication to address low dopamine, talk to your doctor to make sure the drug is safe for you.

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