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The Effect of Malnutrition on Dopamine Function

Oct 27, 2011 | By Dia Dahl
The Effect of Malnutrition on Dopamine Function
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The brain communicates functions to the body through complex chemical signal networks, or neurotransmitters. Dopamine represents one of the primary neurotransmitters responsible for processes controlling movement, cognition, emotional reactivity, appetite, sleep and experiencing pleasure or pain. Dopamine constantly forms and functions with the help of precursor chemicals existing in your brain or added to your body through diet. Malnutrition significantly diminishes the constant production of dopamine and ultimately limits dopamine-related functions.

Malnutrition and Dopamine Production

When your body lacks nutrients because of a poor diet, starvation or medical and digestive complications, malnutrition can occur. The initial signs of malnutrition include weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue and dizziness. Over time, a poor diet increases the risk of a weakened immune system, serious medical illness and impairments in mental function. Malnutrition has a direct effect on decreasing neurotransmitter production. The protein-containing foods you eat are particularly important for replenishing the precursor chemicals required for dopamine.

Dopamine Formation

The digestive system metabolizes the foods you eat into small nutrient molecules that are absorbed into your bloodstream for easy transport to the areas of you body requiring the nutrient. Phenylalanine, an essential amino acid found in protein-containing foods, is the precursor to tyrosine, the amino acid responsible for dopamine formation. When you consume foods with phenylalanine, the body converts the amino acid to tyrosine, which then meets with other chemicals in the body to synthesize dopamine. The proper formation and continuous production of dopamine relies on regular consumption of protein but this process is also dependent upon nutrients supplied by the B-group of vitamins, notes the Linus Pauling Institute.

At-Risk Groups

Those most at risk for impaired dopamine production from malnutrition include mature adults and children. Older adults living alone might not cook or eat full meals as readily as those in assisted care facilities due to immobility, dietary restrictions or medical conditions causing nutrient malabsorption syndrome. Malnutrition in mature adults links to depleted dopamine levels and an increased risk in cognitive deficits associated with dementia, a 2003 article in the "Journal of Neural Transmission" reports. Prenatal malnutrition also links to depleted dopamine levels of infants and could have such an impact on the developing child that permanent mental impairments result, notes a 1995 review published in "The Journal of Nutrition."

Malnutrition Prevention

A well-balanced diet that includes lean sources of protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables is the best defense against malnutrition. Lean proteins include baked poultry without the skin, fish, low-fat dairy products, nuts and soy products. These foods are rich in phenylalanine and B-vitamins. Wheat bread, brown rice and bran cereal provides plant-based proteins and several essential nutrients that are key for good health. Fruits and vegetables also supply vitamins and minerals, which protect the dopamine signaling system from damage caused by harmful oxidizing molecules.

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Ahders Last updated on: Oct 27, 2011

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