Your nutrient intake, via dietary sources or dietary supplements, plays a role in your emotional and mental well-being, as well as the health of your nervous system. One chemical important in brain functioning is dopamine -- a molecule your brain cells use to communicate. Dopamine signalling helps regulate your mood, support learning and memory, control hormone secretion from your pituitary gland, and plays a role in social behavior. Defects in dopamine signalling harm your health, and a loss of dopamine can cause disorders like Parkinson's disease. A number of vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements interact with dopamine, and support proper dopamine function.
Ginseng
One herbal supplement that might regulate dopamine in your brain is ginseng, a supplement available in tablet, liquid, powders or tea form. A study published in the journal "Phytomedicine" in 2011 found that compounds found in ginseng increased the levels of dopamine in rat brains, and that the supplement helped to alleviate symptoms of depression in the animals. Though further research is required to confirm a similar effect in humans, taking ginseng supplements may help to increase your emotional well-being. Consult your doctor before you begin taking ginseng -- especially if you take any medication -- to avoid side effects of supplementation.
Broadbean
Taking broadbean may also have a beneficial effect on dopamine levels. Broadbeans, especially the broadbean pod, contain the compound l-dopa, which acts as a precursor to dopamine in your brain. The University of California Santa Cruz indicates that consuming the beans on a regular basis might represent an effective alternative treatment to increase dopamine levels in the brains of Parkinson's patients. If you currently suffer from Parkinson's disease, talk to your doctor about the potential benefits of broadbeans.
Copper
Minerals may also have an effect on dopamine levels, with copper playing a role in dopamine regulation. Copper aids in the activation of enzymes within your nerves, including two enzymes that regulate dopamine levels, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. The mineral activates MAO, an enzyme that aids in dopamine metabolism, and helps control the amount of dopamine signaling between nerve cells. Copper also activates enzymes that convert dopamine into other brain chemicals, and therefore helps to control the amount of dopamine in your brain. Consume foods like liver, shellfish and nuts to consume copper and help support proper dopamine regulation.
Vitamin B-3
One vitamin with an effect on the levels of dopamine in your brain is vitamin B-3, also called niacin or NADH. Vitamin B-3 aids in the production of dopamine. Individuals suffering from diseases related to dopamine, such as Parkinson's disease, may even benefit from taking vitamin B-3 supplements, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Taking the vitamin may help alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's, or help reduce side effects of some Parkinson's medications. However, taking vitamin B-3 can also lead to side effects. Never begin taking vitamin supplements except under the supervision of a doctor.
References
- "Phytomedicine;" The antidepressant effects and mechanism of action of total saponins from the caudexes and leaves of Panax notoginseng in animal models of depression; Xiang et al.; January 2011
- University of California Santa Cruz: Parkinson's Disease
- Linus Pauling Institute: Copper: Dr. V. Drake: 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Parkinson's Disease; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; March 2010
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