5 Best Dopamine Supplements to Boost Levels Naturally [List]

Dopamine supplements are dietary supplements designed to support healthy dopamine levels in the body and brain.

Some of the most common dopamine boosters are L-tyrosine, mucuna pruriens and phenylalanine.

These supplements work by increasing availability of the precursors that are used to synthesize the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. They can be particularly beneficial in times when this chemical gets depleted within the nervous system.

People often use these supplements to address the symptoms of low dopamine, as well as for other related conditions. They may be used to promote positive mood, motivation, mental energy and cognitive focus.

Although the Natural Medicines Database reports that these supplements are considered possibly safe when used appropriately, they may still cause side effects in some people.

Because the United States Food and Drug Administration has not approved these supplements for the treatment of dopamine deficiency, it is important for consumers to use them with caution.

Below is some useful information about how to increase dopamine levels naturally using supplements, their possible side effects, contraindications and recommended dosages.

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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Why is Dopamine Important?

Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter synthesized naturally in the human body.

It plays a role in a variety of brain functions and is responsible for regulating mood, feelings of pleasure, alertness and for controlling muscle movements.

For example, dopamine is responsible for several key reward pathways in the brain. Some of the other effects of this neurotransmitter include vasodilation, inhibition of norepinephrine, inhibition of lymphocyte activity and recognition of pleasure.

People with dopamine levels that are below normal may experience different symptoms, including anxiety, pleasure-seeking behavior, high energy, insomnia, agitation and high libido.

Recovering normal levels through supplementation may help to reduce alleviate these symptoms. Users also take these supplements to support weight loss, bodybuilding goals and as nootropic agents to boost focus and mental performance.

Natural Supplements for Dopamine Deficiency

Dopamine deficiency is not a recognized medical condition. However, in some cases individuals may experience low levels of this neurohormone which can impair mental function and disrupt mood.

Use of certain stimulant drugs can cause depletion of dopamine stores in your neurons, which can lead to an energy crash, low moods, brain fog and other symptoms. Dietary deficiencies can also reduce availability of precursors required to synthesize this chemical.

Several different natural dopamine supplements may be used to support synthesis of this neurotransmitter in the brain. Some of these supplements include the following:

Mucuna Pruriens

Mucuna pruriens contains natural levodopa (L-Dopa), which is the direct precursor to dopamine. Having more of this precursor available in brain cells may increase dopamine levels.

Although this supplement is usually well tolerated, some consumers may experience gastrointestinal symptoms.

In addition, mucuna pruriens may interact with certain medications, including methyldopa, tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs and some diabetes medications.

L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine is the amino acid the body uses to produce dopamine. Consuming more of this amino acid in your diet or through supplementation may increase your levels.

The Natural Medicines Database reports that L-tyrosine is considered likely safe when used appropriately. However, some people may experience gastrointestinal side effects, weight gain, dizziness, itchy skin or other side effects while taking L-tyrosine.

L-tyrosine may also interact with certain drugs, including antidiabetes drugs, anticoagulant drugs and estrogen.

L-Phenylalanine

L-phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that acts as a precursor to L-tyrosine and indirectly dopamine. It is one-step removed from this neurotransmitter compared to tyrosine.

Using L-phenylalanine can boost levels of tyrosine in the body so you can synthesize more monoamine neurotransmitters as well as norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and epinephrine (adrenaline).

Some people prefer to use Phenylalanine because it promotes a more gradual improvement in mood compared to tyrosine. This supplement may not be appropriate for everyone and should not be used by individuals diagnosed with Phenylketonuria.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba supplements, which are produced from the extract of the ginkgo leaf, may also support healthy dopamine levels.

Studies have shown that regular consumption of this supplement may increase extracellular concentrations of this catecholamine neurotransmitter over time.

Ginkgo is considered to be a very safe herbal supplement to use. It may also be synergistic with the above-mentioned precursors to dopamine.

Much like other dopamine pills, however, ginkgo biloba may cause side effects. Some side effects of this supplement may include skin reactions, headache and gastrointestinal problems.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid found primarily in green tea. Research has shown that this amino acid may raise the levels of various neurotransmitters that affect the mood, including dopamine.

This supplement is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. However, some people taking this supplement may experience headaches, dizziness and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Supplement Dosage

Each of the supplements above behaves differently in the body. Unfortunately, no standardized dosing guidelines are currently available. However, many people determine their dopamine supplement dosages based on the dosages that have been well tolerated in past research studies.

Below are some of the dosages that have been used in research without serious side effects.

• Mucuna Pruriens – Up to 500 – 1000 mg grams per day for one week.
• L-Tyrosine – Up to 500 – 2000 mg daily in divided doses.
• L-Phenylalanine – Up to 100 – 5000 mg daily in divided doses.
• Ginkgo Biloba – Up to 600 mg daily in divided doses.
• L-Theanine – Up to 250 mg in a single dose.

Keep in mind that the dosages above may not be suitable for everyone. Before beginning any regimen, talk to your doctor to determine the best supplements for your needs, as well as the proper dosage. Never take more of these supplements than you need to achieve the desired effect.

Some people who are unable to boost dopamine levels naturally may take prescription medications to increase levels. However, these medications often come with significant side effects.

Consult a licensed physician to find out if this is the right choice for you. If you continue to experience symptoms even after trying to raise dopamine levels, ask your doctor if further testing or treatment is required.

Ways to Raise Dopamine Naturally

In addition to taking dopamine supplements, individuals may use the following strategies to support healthy neurotransmitter levels.

Eating healthy foods. – Eating foods that are rich in the substances the body uses to produce dopamine may support the production of this neurotransmitter. Some of these foods include fava beans, coffee, chocolate, apples, almonds, wheat germ, oatmeal, lima beans, watermelon, pumpkin seeds and various animal products.

Activating reward pathways in the brain. – Activation of reward pathways in the brain supports healthy dopamine levels. To activate these pathways, engage in activities you find enjoyable, such as sports, hobbies or entertainment.

Meditation. – Research studies have shown that meditation can alter the mental status and stimulate dopamine release.

Physical exercise. – According to the results of recent studies, dopamine levels may increase with physical exercise.

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