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Dopamine (DA, a contraction of 3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine) is a neuromodulatory molecule that plays several important roles in cells. It is an organic chemical of the catecholamine and phenethylamine families. Dopamine constitutes about 80% of the catecholamine content in the brain.
Dopamine is a precursor to norepinephrine in noradrenergic nerves and is also a neurotransmitter in certain areas of the central nervous system. Dopamine produces positive chronotropic and inotropic effects on the myocardium, resulting in increased heart rate and cardiac contractility.
Aug 8, 2022 · In this Primer, Costa and Schoenbaum discuss the mammalian midbrain dopamine system, highlighting key principles of dopamine signaling, how it regulates behavior and goes awry in disease, its evolutionary history, and exciting recent developments.
- Eat lots of protein. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and 20 amino acids are needed to make all the proteins in your body. One amino acid called tyrosine has a critical role in dopamine production, and you can get it from protein-rich foods such as turkey, beef, eggs, dairy, soy, and legumes (6, 7, 8, 9).
- Eat less saturated fat. Some research has found that saturated fats, such as those found in animal fat, butter, full-fat dairy, palm oil, and coconut oil, may disrupt dopamine signaling in the brain when consumed in large amounts (12).
- Consume probiotics. Research has found that the gut and brain are closely linked and that certain species of bacteria can produce dopamine which may impact mood and behavior (15, 16).
- Eat velvet beans. Velvet beans, also known as Mucuna pruriens, naturally contain high levels of L-dopa, the precursor molecule to dopamine. Studies show that eating these beans may help raise dopamine levels naturally, especially in people with Parkinson’s disease, a movement disorder caused by low dopamine levels (20).
Sep 18, 2023 · Dopamine is one of the brain’s neurotransmitters – tiny molecules that act as messengers between neurons. It is known for its role in tracking your reaction to rewards such as food, sex,...
- Probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms that line your digestive tract. They help your body function properly. Also known as the good gut bacteria, probiotics not only benefit gut health but may also prevent or treat various health problems, including mood disorders (4).
- Mucuna Pruriens. Mucuna pruriens is a type of tropical bean native to parts of Africa, India and Southern China (11). These beans are often processed into a dried powder and sold as dietary supplements.
- Ginkgo Biloba. Ginkgo biloba is a plant native to China that has been used for hundreds of years as a remedy for various health conditions. Although research is inconsistent, ginkgo supplements may improve mental performance, brain function and mood in certain people.
- Curcumin. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin comes in capsule, tea, extract and powdered forms. It’s thought to have antidepressant effects, as it increases the release of dopamine (22).
Aug 23, 2023 · Natural ways to increase dopamine levels include regular exercise, getting more sunlight, and dietary changes. Learn the best ways to boost dopamine here.
