Low Dopamine Symptoms, Signs, Causes and Natural Treatments

What are the symptoms of having low dopamine levels? Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter that is synthesized by the human body.

It plays a role in several bodily functions, including working memory, motor control, concentration, learning, sleep and mood.

Dopamine is also essential to the brain’s reward system. People with low dopamine levels may experience a number of symptoms, ranging from a lack of motivation to an inability to feel pleasure.

People who struggle with dopamine deficiency symptoms may be able to improve their condition by raising levels of this neurotransmitter, either through natural means or with the help of a supplement or drug.

Below is basic information about dopamine, the symptoms of insufficient dopamine levels and the various strategies people can use to deal with low dopamine.

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Dopamine Levels

Having normal dopamine levels is important for regulating your energy levels, mental state, ability to focus as well as muscle movements.

Dopamine is a natural catecholamine derived from the amino acid tyrosine. It acts as a chemical messenger both in the central and peripheral nervous system.

Dopamine exerts its effects on the body by binding to specialized receptors in various locations. Some of the effects of this neurochemical include:

• Reduction of lymphocyte activity
• Protection of intestinal mucosa
• Reduction of gastrointestinal motility
• Reduction of insulin production
• Increase of urine output
• Vasodilation
• Inhibition of norepinephrine
• Recognition of rewards
• Sensations of pleasure
• Positive reinforcement

Without the right amount of dopamine, any of these functions may be affected. A blood test can determine whether you have high or low levels of this neurotransmitter.

Dopamine Deficiency Symptoms

When dopamine levels are lower than normal, you may experience a number of different symptoms. Some of the symptoms of deficiency may include:

• Lack of motivation
• Inability to focus
• Loss of joy or pleasure
• Fatigue
• Moodiness
• Apathy
• Low sex drive
• Problem handling stress

People with low dopamine in the brain or body may experience only a few of these symptoms, or they may experience all of them.

High Dopamine Symptoms

Dopamine levels that are higher than normal may also cause adverse effects. Some of the symptoms of too much of this neurotransmitter may include:

• High libido
• High energy
• Pleasure-seeking behavior
• Feelings of pleasure that aren’t easily explained
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Mania
• Paranoia
• Insomnia
• High productivity

Causes

Low dopamine may occur for a number of different reasons. For example, some people experience dopamine imbalances because they take medications that affect endogenous hormone levels, while others experience imbalances because of certain medical conditions, such as ADHD or autism.

Other factors can include deficiencies in the diet, stress, low activity levels, poor sleep or neurological issues that affect the synthesis and release of this neurotransmitter in the brain.

Regardless of the cause of dopamine deficiency, significant symptoms can result. For some people, low levels may even perpetuate addictive behaviors.

People experiencing signs of low levels often seek treatment or look for ways to raise their dopamine levels naturally.

Raising Dopamine Levels Naturally

People who have noticed signs of mood imbalance may be able to raise their dopamine levels using one or more of the following methods:

Eating the right foods. – Dopamine is derived from the amino acid tyrosine. Thus, eating a diet high in tyrosine may increase the amount of this neurotransmitter your body synthesizes. Foods high in tyrosine include wheat germ, oatmeal, lima beans, watermelon, pumpkin seeds, fava beans, coffee, chocolate, apples, almonds and many animal products.

Meditation. – Some studies have indicated that dopamine release may increase during meditation, a practice that involves deep focus and relaxation.

Physical exercise. – Research has shown that dopamine levels may increase with physical exercise. Thus, regular exercise may improve the symptoms of low dopamine.

Activating reward pathways. – Participating in enjoyable activities may stimulate the release of this chemical in the brain. For example, some people may experience an improvement of symptoms when they listen to music, draw or knit.

Taking a dopamine supplement. – Certain supplements may effectively raise levels of this catecholamine by increasing the precursors required to synthesize it. Examples of supplements include L-Tyrosine and Mucuna Pruriens. L-tyrosine is the amino acid the body uses to produce dopamine. Mucuna Pruriens, which is also known as cowhage, contains levodopa, which is a direct precursor to dopamine.

Taking prescription drugs. – In some cases, individuals may take certain prescription medications, such as buproprion, to increase levels. However, these medications may come with significant side effects, as well as the potential for interactions with other drugs.

Resolving Symptoms Safely

Although most of the strategies above are safe and unlikely to cause adverse effects, others may carry risks. If you are experiencing the symptoms of low dopamine, talk to your doctor before beginning any prescription medication or supplement.

These substances may interact with other drugs or supplements you are already taking. Prescription medications and supplements may also be contraindicated for certain people. Your doctor will be able to help you determine whether the supplement or medication you are considering is right for you.

Some low dopamine symptoms may also be signs of other conditions. If your symptoms continue even after attempting to raise your levels naturally, talk to your doctor to determine if further testing and/or treatment is required.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking a dopamine medication or supplement, seek medical treatment.

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