The neurotransmitter dopamine generates energy for the metabolism, stimulates the heart, helps to regulate the flow of information throughout the brain, controls movement and allows us to experience feelings of pleasure, according to Health News Stand. Certain foods and supplements, according to MedHelp, have been found to stimulate the production of dopamine, especially those containing the amino acid tyrosine. By triggering the release of additional dopamine in the brain, these special foods contribute to our ability to respond more effectively to our lives, both emotionally and physically.
Proteins
Protein is important for the regulation of dopamine due to the high amino acid content found in all protein sources. Blessed Maine Herb Farm suggests eating fish, eggs, chicken, turkey and red meat for their amino acids, which stimulate dopamine production. Legumes and fermented soy products, such as tempeh and miso, are considered incomplete proteins, but they form complete proteins when combined with grains, becoming excellent sources for dopamine-related amino acids.
Fruits
Ripe bananas are a major source of the amino acid tyrosine, according to MedHelp, and as they mature and get sweeter, their tyrosine component becomes more potent. Tyrosine regulates and stimulates dopamine levels, increasing alertness and memory. Apples are also recommended by MedHelp, due to their high levels of quercitin, a potent antioxidant that has been shown to aid in the prevention of neuro-degenerative diseases by triggering dopamine in the brain. Blueberries, prunes and strawberries round out the fruits that supply nutrients that trigger the release of dopamine.
Wheat Germ
With its high phenylalanine component, wheat germ supplies an essential amino acid that is converted to tyrosine, which then stimulates dopamine production, according to MedHelp.
Nuts and Seeds
Raw almonds, pumpkin and sesame seeds make a great snack and help to regulate dopamine levels. Tahini, a paste made with sesame seeds and almond butter, can be added to your diet to supply the amino acids for dopamine production. Almonds are considered a super food for good health, according to "Nourishing the Body Temple: Edgar Cayce's Approach to Nutrition."
Vegetables
According to MedHelp, beets supply an amino acid called betaine, which aids in the regulation and production of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine. Artichokes and avocados are also great to include in a diet for helping to raise dopamine levels.
Amino Acids and Vitamins
Adding packaged supplements to the diet to increase dopamine levels may be helpful for people who are unable to get those nutrients from their foods for some reason. The amino acid tyrosine, plus several vitamins, such as B, C and E, as well as iron, folic acid and niacin offer an additional boost to trigger dopamine release. Speak to your health care practitioner before including additional iron in your diet.
References
- "Nourishing the Body Temple: Edgar Cayce's Approach to Nutrition;" Simone Gabbay; 1999
- Blessed Maine Herb Farm: Herbs for Mind and Spirit
- MedHelp: Foods That Increase Dopamine Naturally
