How to increase Dopamine production in the brain?
One of the brain hormones (neurotransmitters) that the brains of people with ADD/.ADHD is desperate for is Dopamine.
Research show that they have lower levels of dopamine in the frontal lobes and higher levels of the enzyme that breaks down dopamine once it has been produced by the brain cells.
Here we will explore natural ways of booting dopamine levels in the brain that can be applied at home in addition to any other treatment or training.
DIET - protein
Dopamine is produced by the brain using an amino acid called Tyrosine. Amino acids are found in protein foods. Tyrosine can be used by the brain straight from the protein food, or can be synthesised by the brain from another amino acid called phenylalanine.
Studies show that increasing the amount of tyrosine and phenylalanine in the diet can increase dopamine levels in the brain (click on the study picture to read the articles).
Tyrosine can be taken as a food supplement (consult with your nutritionist before taking) or be obtained by introducing the following foods to your child's diet.
The fact that tyrosine increases dopamine availability that, in turn, may enhance cognitive performance has led to numerous studies on healthy young participants taking tyrosine as a food supplement. As a result of this dietary intervention, participants show performance increases in working memory and executive functions.
Foods that are rich with Tyrosine:
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**Velvet beans, naturally contain high levels of L-dopa, the precursor molecule to dopamine.
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Almonds
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Bananas
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Avocados
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Eggs
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Fish, and chicken
**Velvet beans are toxic in high amounts. Make sure to follow dosage recommendations on the product label. It’s important to consult with your doctor before making changes to your diet or supplement routine.
Foods that support Dopamine levels in the brain
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Ginseng: There is some evidence that panax ginseng acts on the brain’s dopaminergic system
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Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds have been suggested to help maintain sufficient dopamine levels.
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Oregano oil: Oregano oil contains carvacrol – a substance believe to help maintain sufficient levels of dopamine in the brain.
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Spirulina: Spirolina, an aquaculture food dietary supplement, is a rich sources of tyrosine, which is one of building blocks for the production of dopamine can stimulate the manufacture of dopamine and, at least transiently, increase levels of dopamine.
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Turmeric: The active ingredient in the spice turmeric is “curcumin,” a powerful antioxidant and NRF2 activator that is known to cross the blood-brain barrier and increase levels of dopamine.
